7 Best Ski Resorts in Utah, 2024/25

Utah is a true haven for skiers, renowned as one of the premier ski destinations in the U.S. With 14 world-class ski resorts—10 of which are less than an hour's drive from Salt Lake City—it’s a paradise for winter sports enthusiasts. The state’s legendary powder, known for being light, dry and fluffy, is a product of the Great Salt Lake effect, which amplifies snowfall and creates exceptional skiing conditions.
Boasting an average of over 500 inches of snow annually, Utah consistently delivers for powder seekers. To help you make the most of your trip, we’ve compiled a list of the best ski resorts in the state, factoring in terrain variety, snowfall, accessibility and après-ski options. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, you’ll find the perfect spot to hit the slopes!
Table of Contents
1. Park City
Known for
The largest ski resort in the U.S., offering a historic ski town experience with top-tier terrain and entertainment.
Highlights
With 7,300+ skiable acres and 330+ trails, it's a bucket-list destination.
Intermediate skiers thrive on Park City's expansive blue runs, long cruisers and tree skiing.
Endless après-ski options—hundreds of restaurants and bars create one of the liveliest ski town scenes in North America.
Major crowds can be a drawback, especially on weekends and holidays.
24/25 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: 19 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
- Closing Date: 16 Apr 2025* (Estimated close date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) - 27 miles (45 minutes)

Why Ski Park City
Park City is the largest ski resort in the U.S., offering more than just skiing. The resort spans 7,300 skiable acres, combining Park City Mountain and Canyons Village, with a mix of beginner, intermediate, and expert terrain. Known for its ski-in ski-out accommodations, the resort caters to families, groups, and serious skiers alike. Epic Pass holders particularly love the convenience of its vast network of lifts and trails.
Beyond skiing, Park City's historic Old West mining town is packed with winter attractions. Visitors can explore Park City après-ski hotspots, fine dining, luxury shopping and spas. Family-friendly activities include sleigh rides, the Alpine Coaster, and tubing at Utah Olympic Park—just a short drive away. Park City’s popularity means crowds can be sizable, especially during peak holidays and the Sundance Film Festival. However, its efficient lift system and expansive terrain help spread skiers out across the mountain. Whether you're looking for deep powder turns or a vibrant nightlife scene, Park City delivers one of the best ski experiences in Utah.
2. Alta
Known for
Old-school skiers-only mountain with legendary powder and access to Snowbird on the AltaBird pass.
Highlights
World-class extreme terrain with steep chutes, bowls and powder-filled tree runs.
500+ inches of legendary Utah powder annually, offering some of the best snow conditions in North America.
Compact base area that’s easy to navigate, with a dedicated beginner-friendly zone at Albion Basin.
Alta beginner skiing is limited.
Minimal lodging, nightlife and shopping options compared to Park City or Snowbird.
24/25 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: 23 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
- Closing Date: 24 Apr 2025* (Estimated close date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) - 32 miles (45 minutes)

Why Ski Alta
Alta is a skier’s paradise, renowned for its extreme steeps, thrilling chutes and tree-lined runs–all without the presence of snowboarders. While it’s famed for challenging terrain, Alta caters to all skill levels and offers over 500 inches of Utah’s signature dry powder annually. Beginners can ease into the slopes at Albion Basin, intermediates will enjoy Sugarloaf’s wide, groomed runs, and experts can test their limits on iconic lines like High Rustler and Baldy Chutes. Something important to note, unlike traditional resorts, Alta refers to itself as a "ski area," meaning it prioritizes skiing over amenities. Dining, shopping and après-ski options are limited, but the compact base area is easy to navigate. Albion Base is closer to beginner slopes, while Wildcat Base provides quick access to advanced trails. For those craving even more terrain, the AltaBird pass unlocks neighboring Snowbird for a combined skiing experience.
Lodging at Alta emphasizes convenience, with five ski-in ski-out lodges offering packages that often include meals. Condos are available nearby, while budget-conscious skiers may prefer staying in Salt Lake City, just a 40-minute drive away, where nightlife, dining and shopping options abound. The UTA Ski Bus is an excellent alternative to driving, offering a $5 one-way fare (or free with an Ikon Pass) and connecting Salt Lake City to both Alta and Snowbird. At Alta, the transfer tow links the two base areas, and some lodges even provide complimentary shuttles to and from the slopes. Weekend and holiday visitors should note that parking requires paid reservations. Alternatively, you can skip the hassle altogether by taking the light rail to Midvale and transferring to the ski bus for a seamless and eco-friendly commute. Alta's blend of world-class terrain, stunning powder, and authentic ski-focused atmosphere makes it a bucket-list destination for skiers everywhere.
3. Snowbird
Known for
Amazing intermediate and expert terrain, legendary powder and AltaBird access for dual-mountain skiing.
Highlights
Steep, challenging runs for intermediate and expert skiers, plus backcountry access.
AltaBird pass allows skiers to explore both Snowbird and Alta (Alta is ski-only).
High-speed lifts, aerial tram and Peruvian Tunnel ensure efficient mountain access.
One of Utah’s longest ski seasons with 500+ inches of snowfall annually.
Salt Lake City is 45 minutes away.
Limited beginner terrain, nightlife and lodging.
24/25 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: 24 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
- Closing Date: 22 May 2025* (Estimated close date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) - 29 miles (45 minutes)

Why Ski Snowbird
Snowbird is a premier destination for advanced skiers and snowboarders, renowned for its steep chutes, deep powder bowls and one of the longest ski seasons in North America, often extending into May. Nestled in Utah’s Wasatch Range, Snowbird boasts over 500 inches of consistent annual snowfall and an efficient lift system that minimizes wait times, ensuring you spend more time on the slopes. The resort's iconic Mineral Basin, located on the mountain's backside, offers expansive powder-filled terrain, while the Aerial Tram whisks visitors up 2,900 vertical feet in just seven minutes. A standout feature is Snowbird’s unique ski tunnel, complete with a conveyor belt, connecting the front and back sides of the mountain.
For AltaBird pass holders, access to both Snowbird and neighboring Alta is possible, though snowboarders should note that Alta remains a ski-only resort. Snowbird’s compact base village offers a selection of upscale lodges and a handful of dining options, but après-ski experiences are limited. For more vibrant nightlife, diverse dining and shopping, most visitors opt to stay in Salt Lake City, just a 40-minute drive away. When it comes to getting around, Snowbird is not particularly walkable. However, the public UTA ski bus provides free transportation between Snowbird and Alta. Parking is limited, with paid reservations required during peak weekends and holidays. Travelers can also choose private shuttles for convenience, or use the UTA ski bus by taking Salt Lake City’s TRAX light rail to Midvale and transferring to the ski bus from there.
4. Deer Valley
Known for
Skiers-only mountain with luxury ski-in ski-out lodging, impeccable grooming and five-star service.
Highlights
Superb customer service, world-class grooming and ski valet services.
Top-tier accommodations and fine-dining options.
Limited daily lift tickets reduce crowds, ensuring an exclusive experience.
Expensive lift tickets and no entry for snowboarders.
24/25 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: 3 Dec 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
- Closing Date: 14 Apr 2025* (Estimated close date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) - 38 miles (45 minutes)
Provo Municipal Airport (PVU) - 31 miles (1 hour 15 minutes)

Why Ski Deer Valley
Deer Valley is the epitome of luxury in the skiing world. This skiers-only resort is renowned for its impeccable facilities, meticulously groomed slopes and a family-friendly atmosphere. With an exceptional ski school and diverse terrain spread across six mountains, it’s no wonder families flock here. To enhance the experience, Deer Valley limits the number of daily lift tickets sold, reducing crowds and adding an air of exclusivity. While the resort is undeniably on the pricier side, guests are treated to convenient lodging, upscale dining, and five-star service. Though nightlife at the base is limited, the resort’s proximity to downtown Park City ensures access to a vibrant selection of restaurants, shops and entertainment just minutes away.
Deer Valley offers three main lodging areas: Snow Park (Base Area), Silver Lake (Mid-Mountain) and Empire Pass (Upper-Mountain). Each area provides close access to the lifts and various dining options. Snow Park is particularly suited to families, with the ski school, children’s center and beginner-friendly slopes located here. It’s also just a five-minute drive from Park City’s lively Main Street. Silver Lake and Empire Pass cater to those seeking quicker access to a wider range of terrain. Many accommodations include a complimentary Cadillac shuttle service within the resort, while the free Park City transit system provides convenient transportation throughout Deer Valley and to downtown Park City. Reaching Deer Valley from Salt Lake City is straightforward. Private shuttle services offer direct transfers, or you can take a bus from downtown Salt Lake City to Kimball Junction, then connect to a transit bus to the resort. With its blend of luxury, convenience and world-class skiing, Deer Valley delivers an unforgettable mountain experience.
Known for
Humble but vast ski mountain, offering one of the most uncrowded ski experiences in North America.
Highlights
Largest skiable terrain in North America, spanning 8,000+ acres of in-bounds terrain.
Affordable cat skiing, making it one of the best-value backcountry experiences.
Restricted number of daily lift tickets, ensuring fresh powder and fewer crowds.
While less commercialized than other Utah resorts, its remote location with limited amenities.
24/25 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: 11 Dec 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
- Closing Date: 10 Apr 2025* (Estimated close date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) - 55 miles (1 hour 30 minutes)
Provo Municipal Airport (PVU) - 80 miles (2 hours)

Why Ski Powder Mountain
Powder Mountain may be the farthest ski resort from Salt Lake City on this list, but its expansive terrain makes the journey worthwhile. With the largest skiable area in North America and daily ticket sales capped at just 1,500, visitors can expect an uncrowded and serene experience. The resort offers backcountry terrain serviced by snowcats for advanced skiers, but there are trails to suit all skill levels. However, if you're looking for a destination with vibrant dining, shopping, or off-slope activities, Powder Mountain may not be the best fit.
Lodging options on the mountain are limited but include ski-in/ski-out cabins in the Lefty’s Canyon area. For more accommodations, nearby towns like Wolf Creek and Eden, just 15–20 minutes away, offer additional choices. Eden features a handful of dining options, while Ogden, a 40-minute drive from the resort, boasts a broader selection of restaurants and shops. The resort provides parking at three lodges: Sundown Lodge, ideal for beginners, and Timberline Lodge and Hidden Lake Lodge, both of which require skiing down to access chairlifts. For those seeking public transportation, the UTA Ski Bus runs routes between Ogden and the mountain, as well as from the ‘Park & Ride’ lot in Eden. Private shuttles are also available for direct travel to and from Salt Lake City. Powder Mountain stands out as a sanctuary for skiers who value vast terrain and solitude over bustling resort amenities.
6. Snowbasin
Known for
Best value resort in Utah with wide-open bowls, long vertical and a friendly locals vibe.
Highlights
3,000 feet of vertical and 3,000 skiable acres.
Fewer crowds compared to major resorts like Park City, ideal for skiers who want shorter lift lines and uncrowded slopes.
Luxurious day lodges known for their upscale dining, fireplaces and stunning views.
No base village or slopeside accommodations, meaning visitors typically stay in nearby Ogden or Salt Lake City.
24/25 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: 23 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
- Closing Date: 16 Apr 2025* (Estimated close date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) - 45 miles (45 minutes)
Provo Municipal Airport (PVU) - 70 miles (1 hour 30 minutes)

Why Ski Snowbasin
A former Olympic venue for the 2002 downhill skiing events, Snowbasin offers stunning day lodges and an impressive variety of terrain. On clear days, the views from the summit extend across neighboring states, and the lengthy vertical runs provide an exhilarating descent. With its welcoming atmosphere, smaller crowds and surprisingly excellent cafeteria options, Snowbasin delivers a memorable skiing experience. However, it lacks a base village and slopeside accommodations.
While there’s no lodging directly at the resort, the city of Ogden is just a 30-minute drive away, offering plenty of dining, shopping and entertainment options. For a quieter stay, consider one of the charming small towns in Ogden Valley, located 15 to 20 minutes from the slopes. Salt Lake City, less than an hour's drive from Snowbasin, offers an extensive array of restaurants, shops, and nightlife for those seeking a more vibrant experience. If you’re staying in Ogden Valley, select properties provide shuttle services to and from the resort. Additionally, the UTA Ski Bus runs routes from Ogden and Layton, with convenient stops at 'Park & Ride' lots in Weber and Davis Counties. Private shuttle services are also available for transport to and from Salt Lake City, making it easy to access the slopes no matter where you stay.
7. Brighton, UT
Known for
Laid-back local mountain with excellent terrain and a connection to Solitude Mountain.
Highlights
Affordable for families—kids 6 and under ski free with a paid adult (2 per family).
Offers Utah’s best night skiing, extending mountain access well into the evening.
Slope connected to Solitude Mountain via the Solbright Pass, providing expanded terrain options.
Less crowded than nearby popular resorts like Park City and Snowbird.
Small base area with limited après-ski, food and lodging options.
24/25 Ski Season:
- Opening Date: 19 Nov 2024* (Estimated open date based on historical data)
- Closing Date: 28 Apr 2025* (Estimated close date based on historical data)
Closest airports
Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) - 36 miles (45 minutes)
Provo Municipal Airport (PVU) - 27 miles (1 hour 30 minutes)

Why Ski Brighton
Brighton, Utah’s first ski area, is a dependable choice for those seeking fewer crowds and a variety of terrain. Its trails are thoughtfully distributed across four distinct parts of the mountain, offering easy access to groomers, bowls, tree skiing and terrain parks via express chairlifts. For night owls, night skiing is available Monday through Saturday. While smaller than other nearby resorts, Brighton offers access to Solitude Mountain through the SolBright Pass, providing even more blue and black trails to explore. It’s also a great family-friendly destination, as kids under 10 ski or ride for free. However, note that dining and accommodation options at the base are limited.
The Brighton Lodge, the resort’s only ski-in ski-out accommodation, sits conveniently at the base of the slopes. Nearby, a handful of chalets are within a short 5-minute walk to the lifts. If you’re planning to ski both Brighton and Solitude, the latter is just a 5-minute drive away and offers a wider range of lodging options. Alternatively, staying in Salt Lake City—only a 45-minute drive—provides more diverse opportunities for dining, shopping, and nightlife. Getting between Brighton and Solitude is easy with the free UTA bus service. For transportation to and from Salt Lake City, private shuttles are available, or you can take the light rail from downtown Salt Lake City to Midvale and transfer to a UTA ski bus to Brighton.