Image by qbac07 via Flickr
Utah’s state license plates claim that the state has “the greatest snow on earth.” Many skiers believe that and every winter flock to its slopes to enjoy the powder. Here are 4 great ski resorts that are within an hour’s drive from Salt Lake City.
Alta. A short drive up Little Cottonwood Canyon, Alta has beginner’s bunny trails to advanced black diamond trails. Something for everyone. It has 116 runs and 10 lifts. (It is a favorite with the locals.) The alpine scenery is at its finest at Alta – deep forest green pines, sparkling white snow, crisp blue skies. Alta has joined with its neighbor, Snowbird, to extend its access to ski runs. More runs = more fun! And to top it off, Alta has 2 ski-in ski-out restaurants. (Snowboarding is not permitted at Alta.)
Snowbird. Ride the 125-passener Aerial Tram up 4,000 feet in less than 8 minutes. (Not for the faint of heart!) From this top-of-the-world ridge, ski the renowned Chip’s Run for 2.5 miles worth of trail. In addition to the deep powder on the ski runs, Snowbird offers deluxe hotel suites, outdoor heated pools, several restaurants, and spa services.
Park City. The Winter Olympics in 2002 put the Park City ski resort on the map. Park City has been named one of the top 10 family resorts in North America. Its snow amenities include skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and a lift-served lighted hill for tubing. There are over 2,000 ACRES for your skiing pleasure. It has an excellent ski program for children ages 6 to 14. Lessons include lunch at their choice of on-mountain restaurants and a discount on ski rentals. Park City is only 35 minutes from Salt Lake City.
Deer Valley. Drive a little bit further and you come to Deer Valley Resort. SKI magazine readers have rated Deer Valley as one of the top three ski resorts in North America. In addition to great skiing, the resort has the amenities and service of a five-star hotel. After an exhilarating day on the slopes, dine and rest and enjoy the service and attention that is known as the ‘Deer Valley Difference.”