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Why You Should Visit Salt Lake City’s Ski Resorts
Welcome to Salt Lake City, the central hub of world class Utah ski destinations. Within roughly an hour’s drive from Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), you’ll discover 10 premier ski resorts blanketed in Utah’s renowned “Greatest Snow on Earth®.” There are over 100 daily flights into SLC making these ski destinations some of the most accessible in the world. Whether you’re planning a family vacation, organizing a group or business retreat, chasing endless powder, or just starting out in winter sports, there’s a perfect resort waiting for you.
- 10 Easily Accessible Ski Resorts within 1 hour of SLC Airport
- World Class Terrain and Snow
- Perfect Vacations for Families, Couples, Luxury Trips and Expert Skiers
- IKON and EPIC Pass Options
Don’t be overwhelmed by options—Skizi is here to help!
This guide is complete with trail maps and the most important information to strong look at each resort, highlighting what makes them unique and what they excel at. From the boutique, artsy charm of Sundance to the legendary terrain and snow of Snowbird, to the blockbuster mega resort of Park City, Utah’s ski resorts offer something for every type of vacation.
Map of Salt Lake City Ski Resorts
There are 10 ski resorts within about an hour drive from the Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). As a major hub with daily nonstop flights from over 100 different destination flights to SLC tend to be fairly priced despite where you are departing from.
Each of these resorts is unique in its own way. The environment of some, like Park City or Deer Valley are catered towards families and have a lively après ski environment. Resorts like Snowbird, Alta, and Solitude in Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons have the best snowfall and amazing terrain to ride but not much of an atmosphere outside of skiing. No matter what you’re looking for, you can find it here.
Click Here to skip straight to the details on these world class ski resorts.
How to plan a Ski Trip to Utah
- Choose a Ski Resort or Resorts
- Depending on whether you want to best terrain, a family vacation, terrain parks, or to be pampered in a slopeside spa there is a resort best for you. Use the Skizi’s tools to research the ski resorts and reach out with any questions!
- Pick an Area to Stay
- Depending on the resort you are visiting there a few options for lodging. If you plan on visiting the resorts in the Cottonwood Canyons then staying in Salt Lake City is your best bet. Whereas Park City or Deer Valley have a variety of options near the resort to choose from. If you want to beat the crowds and save on budget, then staying in Ogden is a great option for the northern resorts like Snowbasin.
- Book Lodging, Flights, Transfers, Lift Tickets, Rentals, & Lessons
- Once you know where you’re going and where you’re staying it’s time to secure your reservations! To go skiing you will need a place to stay, a rental car or transfer, lift tickets, rentals, and maybe lessons for you or your family.
- There are a variety of options in Salt Lake for rentals and lift tickets. For lift tickets you could use one of the famous super passes like EPIC or IKON or maybe it makes more sense to grab some days on the Salt Lake Ski Super Pass or buy resort day tickets. There are smaller shops around town which rent and service equipment as well.
- Go Skiing!
Or Contact Skizi and we’ll take care of everything for you!
Don’t be overwhelmed by options. Get in touch and I’ll help you plan your perfect trip, stress free.
Do you need a car?
Not necessarily. If you plan on staying on the mountain or in the village you most definitely do not need a car. Transfer shuttles, Uber and Lyft are accessible, and the resorts are within roughly one hour of the airport.
Even if you are staying in Salt Lake City and plan to commute to the mountains the UTA bus services Snowbasin Resort, Powder Mountain, Solitude Mountain Resort, Brighton, Snowbird, Alta, and Sundance. A one-way fare is $5 per person however if you have certain season passes, including the IKON, then riding is free. There are lodging options that are within walking distance of certain bus stops as well as restaurants and après activities.
If you want to explore around Salt Lake and surrounding areas, then a car is definitely advised but there are certainly options to ski here without the vehicle rental. Send a message and we’ll walk you through the best options.
Utah’s Snow and Après Ski
Salt Lake City Après Ski
Salt Lake City is a large city with après ski bars and restaurants like the Hog Wallow, to the natural beauty of Antelope Island. There’s so many great things to do, check out our guide to Salt Lake City Après Ski and Attractions.
The Greatest Snow on Earth®
Utah’s trademarked “Greatest Snow on Earth®” slogan isn’t just marketing—it’s science. The powder has a perfect light and dry composition that feels divine to ski through. The state’s unique geography is to thank for its legendary powder. As Pacific storms cross the Sierra Nevada, they lose much of their moisture, leaving lighter, drier snow by the time they reach Utah’s Wasatch Mountains. This low moisture snow is soft, fluffy, and perfect for skiing. The Wasatch Range’s high elevation, cold temperatures, and ideal orientation ensure heavy snowfall and preserve its quality. With consistent storms, dry air, and perfect terrain, Utah’s snow has earned its reputation among skiers and snowboarders worldwide.
Utah also gets enough storms to cover the mountain tops with snow each season. Snowbird, Brighton, and Alta in Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons average over 500″ of snow (40 feet) per season. Compared to Colorado resorts like Aspen, Steamboat, Vail, and Breckenridge which all average 300″ to 350″ per year. Utah has a long ski season, often still receiving snow in through April with resorts typically closing May depending on conditions.
Ski Resorts of Salt Lake City
Use the filters below to find and read more about each resort. Select your type of trip or which mega pass you have (if you have one) to filter the resorts below and read more about each one.
Reach out for any questions, trip planning advice, or to use our world class travel planning services!
Type of Trip
Park City
Park City is the most renowned and the largest resort on this list and the only one included in the EPIC Pass. As one of North America’s largest ski resorts, it’s an ideal choice for those who want to pair endless skiing opportunities with the vibrant energy of a lively mountain town.
Best for Families, Group Trips, and Terrain Parks.
EPIC Pass Resort with great Nightlife and Après Ski
Best Lodge: Waldorf Astoria Park City
More on Park City
Quick Facts
- 7300 acres of skiable terrain
- 3226 feet vertical drop
- 10,026 ft Summit elevation
- Best for Families, Group Trips, and Beginners
- 355 inches of snow annually
- EPIC Pass
The town of Park City is by far the most vibrant in the greater Salt Lake area, full of bars, restaurants, shops, and activities. If you value a night on the town or want to browse shops then this is your best option.
As for the mountain, it offers something for everyone. From designated beginner zones to terrain parks and a balanced mix of intermediate and advanced terrain, skiers and snowboarders of all levels will find their playground. The skiable area is large enough to keep you exploring for three full days.
Deer Valley
Deer Valley is the pinnacle of luxury ski trips. There are numerous 5 star lodging options to choose from including Montage Deer Valley, The Stein Eriksen Lodge, and the St. Regis Deer Valley. Indulge in spa treatments, relax in your hot tub, and enjoy seamless ski-in/ski-out access, complete with ski valets, plush luxury linens, and gourmet dining.
Best for Luxury Trips, Families, Group Trips, and Couples.
IKON Pass Resort with great Après Ski nearby Park City.
Best Lodge: Montage Deer Valley
More on Deer Valley
Quick Facts
- 3000 feet vertical drop
- 9570 ft Summit elevation
- 2026 Acres of skiable terrain
- Best for Luxury Trips, Families, Group Trips, and Couples
- Ski Only Resort
- 300 inches of snow annually
- IKON Pass
While Deer Valley boasts exceptional fine dining options, many hotels also provide complimentary shuttle services to nearby downtown Park City. Here, you can explore a vibrant village with restaurants, bars, shops, and a more energetic nightlife scene.
On the slopes, Deer Valley is known for lower crowds, pristine grooming, tree skiing, and picturesque views. Runs like Stein’s Way offer incredible views and challenging terrain. Deer Valley is a ski only resort, snowboarding is not allowed.
Snowbird
If you’re a Powderhound in search of the ultimate snow and terrain, Snowbird, Utah, should be at the top of your list. Boasting the largest vertical drop in the Salt Lake City area at 3,240 feet, Snowbird is a playground catered to advanced and expert skiers. Thanks to its geographic positioning in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Snowbird sees more snowfall than any other Utah resort, with an average of 500 inches annually.
Best for Powderhounds
IKON Pass Resort with the highest snow totals, high vertical drop in the area and advanced terrain.
Best Lodge: Cliff Lodge and Spa
More on Snowbird
Quick Facts
- Over 3,240 vertical feet; highest vertical in the area
- 11,000 ft Summit elevation
- 2500 acres of skiable terrain
- Best for Powderhounds
- Over 500 inches of snow annually
- IKON Pass and Mountain Collective
Hop aboard the iconic red and blue trams to reach Hidden Peak. From the summit, you can access the Cirque Traverse and tackle steep chutes on either side. For those craving a challenge, test your skills on Great Scott, the resort’s steepest run.
Even on busy days, you should be able to find powder stashes at Snowbird. Take a short hike to explore the Temptation Chutes or Boundary Bowl or follow the Red Lens Line off Gad 2 to discover Thunderbowl and the tree runs at Mushroom Land.
Alta
Another resort made for powderhounds. Alta shares a border with its neighbor, Snowbird and offers an impressive variety of advanced to expert terrain. Located in Little Cottonwood Canyon, the resort receives an average of 500 inches of snow annually—about 150 inches more than its Utah and Colorado counterparts.
Best for Powderhounds
Ski Only Resort
IKON Pass Resort with the highest snow totals in the area and advanced terrain.
Best Lodge: The Snowpine Lodge
More on Alta
Quick Facts
- Ski Only Resort
- Over 2,500 vertical feet
- 11,000 ft Summit elevation
- 2600 acres of skiable terrain
- Over 500 inches of snow annually
- Best for Powderhounds
- Large amount of Hike-to terrain
- IKON Pass and Mountain Collective
Established in 1938, Alta is one of the oldest ski areas in Utah and has stayed true to its roots by remaining exclusively dedicated to skiers, maintaining a strict no-snowboarding policy.
The iconic High Traverse offers access to an array of bowls, chutes, and glades. If you’re in for a hike the Baldy Chutes will let you get your steps in and ski a 40° descent down. After taking some epic photos at the top, of course. Before wrapping up your trip, be sure to tackle Alf’s High Rustler, affectionately known as “High Boy,” a classic Alta steep that’s a must-sk. If you’re a skier looking for the best terrain and snow check out Alta.
Brighton
Known as “where Utah learns to ski,” located in Big Cottonwood Canyon Brighton has all levels of terrain, excellent snow, and some pretty great terrain parks. The Cottonwood resorts are known for their exceptional snow and advanced terrain however Brighton has the mildest slopes of the bunch with more greens and blues to ride than the others.
Best for Families and Beginners
IKON Pass Resort with excellent Terrain Parks and Night Skiing
More on Brighton
Quick Facts
- 1800 feet vertical drop
- 10,500 ft Summit elevation
- 1050 acres of skiable terrain
- Best Night Skiing in Salt Lake Area
- Top tier Terrain Parks
- Best for Families and Beginners
- 500 inches of snow annually
- IKON Pass
Brighton is great for progression terrain, meaning there are just enough beginner, intermediate, and advanced features to work on your skills and improve your abilities. This also makes Brighton a great resort for families or groups of varied abilities because everyone can find a place to play.
At 1050 acres of skiable terrain Brighton isn’t as big as some of its neighbors however this is a good thing if you’re skiing with your family and children because it makes it much easier to find everyone while still having enough terrain to explore. Brighton also has pretty awesome terrain parks, is affordable, and has the best night skiing near Salt Lake. This is a well-rounded resort great for families and beginner to intermediate skiers.
Solitude
Solitude is where you will find the most unique runs, hidden powder stashes, and pretty awesome terrain. Known for being less crowded than other resorts, Solitude offers plenty of “off the beaten path” ski runs and hike-to terrain, where powder stashes last longer. Bordering Brighton in Big Cottonwood Canyon, this resort benefits from an impressive annual snowfall of around 500 inches.
Best for Powderhounds
IKON Pass Resort with the best Powder Stashes, exploring Hike to Terrain, good Terrain Parks and Great for Snowboarders
Best Lodge: The Inn at Solitude
More on Solitude
Quick Facts
- 2494 feet vertical drop
- 10,488 ft Summit elevation
- 1200 acres of skiable terrain
- Best for Exploring and Powder Stashes
- Best for Powderhounds
- 500 inches of snow annually
- IKON Pass
If you’re an adventurer at heart, Solitude is perfect for exploring. The Honeycomb Canyon features expansive bowls, thrilling tree runs, and challenging expert terrain, including the famous Fantasy Ridge. The views here are breathtaking, and the runs are steep. Be sure to check in with ski patrol before tackling the ridge. Solitude is also home to Utah’s steepest groomed run, Challenger, offering an exhilarating experience for those who crave a challenge. If you’re looking for powder and some serious skiing, Solitude is the place for you.
Snowbasin
Snowbasin is renowned for offering some of the finest on-mountain dining in the country, impeccably groomed intermediate trails, exceptional snow quality, and a variety of terrain for advanced and expert skiers. Ranked the #1 ski resort in the U.S. by Ski Magazine, USA Today, and Outside Magazine for 2024-2025. Known for its world-class lodges & slopes and as the official Alpine Skiing venue for the 2034 Winter Olympics, Snowbasin has a reputation that few resorts can match.
Best for Families and Powderhounds
IKON Pass Resort with the best On Mountain Dining and typically Lower Crowds
More on Snowbasin
Quick Facts
- 3000 feet vertical drop
- 9370 ft Summit elevation
- 3000 acres of skiable terrain
- Top tier on mountain dining & facilities
- Best for Families and Powderhounds
- 300 inches of snow annually
- IKON Pass
Located in the Ogden Valley Area, north of Salt Lake City which is just 45 minutes north of Salt Lake City International Airport. As a note there is not currently any lodging at the actual resort base, this is supposed to be changing for the 25-26 season. There are plenty of options in nearby Ogden but plan to drive or ride the UTA ski bus. This resort is large enough to offer plenty of opportunity for exploration and have enough terrain for Beginners to Advanced skiers.
Sundance
Sundance is unlike any other resort on this list—and arguably one of the most distinctive ski resorts in the USA. Founded in 1969 by actor and producer Robert Redford, Sundance was envisioned as a haven where Utah’s wilderness could harmonize with artistic expression. The world-renowned Sundance Film Festival, now hosted in Park City, had its humble beginnings at this resort in 1978.
Best for Luxury Trips, Couples, and Families
Boutique Resort with the best Scenery and unique Culture of Art
Best Lodge: Sundance Mountain Resort
More on Sundance
Quick Facts
- Over 2,150 vertical feet
- 8250 ft Summit elevation
- 540 acres of skiable terrain
- Over 300 inches of snow annually
- Unmatched scenery and serenity
- Best for Couples, Luxury Trips, and Families
- Artistic Legacy
The vibe of Sundance is not about high-rise lodges and noisy après-ski parties. Instead, it offers a serene, intimate atmosphere focused on connecting with nature, people, and creativity. The resort features an on-site art studio that invites guests to explore their creative sides through engaging two-hour workshops. Options range from pottery and jewelry making to watercolor painting, glass blowing, perfume crafting, soap making, and more. Throughout the resort, art is celebrated, with artistically designed lodges, thoughtfully decorated restaurants, and displays of creative works woven into the experience.
Sitting at the base of the stunning Mount Timpanogos, Sundance offers a much smaller skiable area compared to larger resorts. However, it provides a well-balanced mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced terrain, ideal for skiers of all levels.
This is the perfect retreat for those seeking a unique blend of skiing and relaxation. Great for couples or families looking for a laid back and unique experience combining skiing and art.
Powder Mountain
If you’re looking for untouched powder on expansive terrain then look no further than Powder Mountain, Utah. This Utah ski areas offers massive untouched slopes, capped ticket sales to reduce crowds, and no mega pass access creating a tucked-away vibe that feels like your own private mountain. Powder Mountain offers some of Utah’s finest CAT skiing, with guided adventures that include access to 3,200 acres of pristine backcountry terrain as well as top tier on mountain facilities with homemade dressings and organic ingredients.
Best for Powderhounds and Families
Semi-private resort with Low Crowds and accessible CAT Skiing
Best Lodge: WorldMark Wolf Creek Lodge
More on Powder Mountain
Quick Facts
- 2522 feet vertical drop
- 9422 ft Summit elevation
- 5200 Acres of in bounds Terrain
- 3200 acres of terrain for guided tours and CAT Skiing
- Best CAT skiing and low crowds in SLC area
- Best for Powderhounds and Families
- 360 inches of snow annually
Nordic Valley
Welcome to Nordic Valley, a charming and stress-free resort that’s perfect for beginner skiers and families. As the smallest and least crowded resort on this list, Nordic Valley offers an affordable and enjoyable skiing experience without the hassle of large crowds or high costs. Its relaxed atmosphere is a breath of fresh air, and the low visitor numbers mean less time waiting in lift lines and more time enjoying the slopes.
Best for Beginners
Small resort with Budget Pricing and Ski School packages
More on Nordic Valley
Quick Facts
- 1700 feet vertical drop
- 7060 ft Summit elevation
- 500 acres of skiable terrain
- Best for Beginners and Budget
- Most affordable lessons, lift tickets, and rentals
- 300 inches of snow annually
Nordic Valley’s welcoming vibe attracts many newcomers. The resort boasts an excellent ski school with highly qualified PSIA-AASI-certified instructors, meaning they are knowledgeable and trained to guide small classes or one-on-one private lessons. Lessons are incredibly affordable, and Nordic Valley provides the best value packages, bundling lessons, lift tickets, and ski rentals into one budget-friendly option.
For first-time skiers and snowboarders, Nordic Valley hosts daily mountain orientation sessions at 10:30 AM. These sessions cover everything from slope navigation and how ski resorts operate to insider tips designed to help you feel confident and at ease on the mountain. Whether you’re hitting the slopes for the first time or introducing your family to skiing, Nordic Valley is the perfect place to start.
Contact Skizi
Let us create the ultimate trip for you! From lodging and flights to lift tickets, transportation, and activities, we handle all the details—at no extra cost to you.
Send in a Trip Intake Form or Book online to start planning your perfect getaway today!
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