You’ll be really hard pushed to find a better destination for a multi-generational snow holiday than Utah. Big claim?! Yes, but it truly is somewhere that first-timers and non-skiers can have just as much fun as the hardcore shredders; and little adventurers can be entertained for hours while the grown-ups hit that world-famous powder. It’s a really special place that ticks all the boxes for a successful family holiday – ease, flexibility, great value and the widest array of adventure, both on and off the slopes.
Read on for our Top 5 reasons why Utah is up there with our most recommended destinations for families and first-timers, then grab the grandparents, kids, and your whole extended family to book one of our unbeatable Early Bird Specials that will get you there this winter.
Reach out to our Utah snow holidays specialists and start planning today: [email protected]
THE SNOW (it’s literally the Greatest!)
When you first ski or snowboard in Utah, you’ll immediately feel that the snow is incredibly light and dry. Well, the research has been done and Utah can scientifically lay claim to being home of The Greatest Snow on Earth!
According to atmospheric scientist Jim Steenburgh, the combination of climate conditions that brew over the Wasatch Mountain resorts in Salt Lake City’s Cottonwood Canyons is the reason why Utah offers the most incredible conditions for deep-powder skiing and riding.
In addition to the quality, Utah’s Cottonwood Canyons are one of the snowiest places in the world, making this part of the state an amazing place for learners, intermediates, experts and anyone else that likes to play in soft, fluffy snow! The average annual snowfall is big, at 13 metres; but this past season was really huge, with a record 23 metres of snowfall!
THE ACCESSIBILITY
Utah is home to 15 ski resorts, and Salt Lake City is less than an hour from 10 of them – Deer Valley Resort, Park City Mountain, Alta, Snowbird, Brighton, Solitude, Woodward Park City, Snowbasin, Nordic Valley and Sundance.
With so much so close, everything about a Utah snow holiday is easy – fly into the newly constructed Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), organise an easy transfer or shuttle to your resort, or conveniently collect your rental car from one of the on-site providers. There are no long bus rides or drives after your flight.
With this much convenience and easy accessibility, you’re already off to a great start!
THE OPTIONS
With the close proximity of so many world-class ski resorts and winter adventures, your only problem is going to be allowing enough time to take it all in.
Many of Utah’s resorts are on one of the multi-passes (Ikon Pass, Epic Pass, Salt Lake Super Pass) allowing you to easily explore and ski as many as you like. And much like your individual family members, each resort has its own character and vibe, so you’re bound to find something for everyone. They can cater to the first-time ski kid or grandparent just as well as the shredding teenager or steep-seeking parent.
Park City Mountain spans 2,954 hectares with more than 330 runs, 43 lifts and 2 bases linked by a gondola. There is so much to do here, you can even ski into the charming Main Street of Park City and discover an incredible range of restaurants, bars and shops.
Deer Valley Resort, located in Park City, is a skiers-only mountain famous for its 5-star service, luxury accommodation options and incredible ski school.
Snowbird is a playground for those who like it fast, steep, and deep. Skiing at Snowbird is thrilling. A sprawling resort, it is served by an impressive array of high-speed chairs and Utah’s only aerial tram, which drops you off atop Hidden Peak at 3300 metres above sea level, for a jaw-dropping panorama of high alpine wonder.
Snowbasin offers a change of pace with seventy per cent of the mountain’s trails catering to beginner and intermediate skiers. Kids will love the family-friendly glade, Bear Hollow Woods, while non-skiers will be more than happy to hang out in Snowbasin’s extravagant day lodges, with their beautiful, timber-beamed ceilings, plush couches, marble bathrooms and indulgent dining options.
Alta Ski Area, open since 1938, is one of the oldest resorts in the US, and another skiers-only mountain. While known for its steep and challenging terrain, one of the area’s best kept secrets is the easily accessible beginner area in the Albion Basin. There are also wide-open bowls created by glacier activity that are perfect for intermediate skiers.
Powder Mountain is a true hidden gem, close to the town of Ogden. The area is massive with 3425 hectares of skiable terrain, but you can feel that you have the mountain to yourself as they cap the total number of passes daily. There’s beautiful, rolling groomers, ideal for beginners and intermediates, while the more experienced skiers and riders can try the Single Ride Cat Skiing to reach endless powder stashes and magical tree skiing.
Brighton Resort, only 40 minutes from downtown Salt Lake in Big Cottonwood Canyon, is one of the four resorts on the Salt Lake Super Pass and a firm family favourite with locals. There’s five-star grooming, as well as chutes and trees for those who like white knuckle terrain. Brighton has three awesome terrain parks and an incredible ski & ride school with passionate instructors offering daily group and private lessons for all ages. All trails can be accessed by high-speed quads, so families can ride up together, take different trails and catch up again at the bottom.
One of our favourite, uniquely Utah experiences is to add a few extra days onto the end of a trip and drive south to explore the stunning state and national parks and ski amongst the red rocks of Cedar Breaks National Monument in Brian Head.
THE OFF MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE
The beauty and adventure of Utah’s mountains are not exclusively for skiers and snowboarders. Park City has plenty to experience off the slopes, including zip-lining, dog sledding, riding the Mountain Coaster and even taking on the Comet Bobsled at Utah Olympic Park. Beautiful Main Street has so much to discover – with charming history, high-end shops, restaurants, music venues, art galleries, bars, breweries and distilleries, ensuring the non-skiers in your crew will find countless ways to fill their days!
Less than 30 minutes from Park City, the picturesque mountain town of Heber Valley is a gateway to both awesome outdoor adventure and relaxing wellness activities. You can take a snowmobile tour, explore the beautiful snowshoeing and cross-country ski trails, go ice fishing and fly down Utah’s longest tubing lanes. Those seeking a slower pace can take in the scenery from a hot air balloon ride, visit the mesmerising ice castles or take a therapeutic soak in the geothermal hot springs of the Utah Crater.
The best way to experience as much of Salt Lake City as you can (without taking too much time away from the snow) is with a Salt Lake Connect Pass. The Pass grants you access to 18 awesome attractions in the city and surrounding area, making it an easy and affordable way for families to explore. Available as 1, 2, or 3 day passes, attractions include museums, galleries, Utah’s Hogle Zoo, the planetarium, immersive art experiences, parks, gardens and more.
THE LODGING & DEALS
Utah offers a huge range of accommodation options to suit any snow holiday budget, with everything from luxury hotels, residences, cosy lodges, chalets and fully-equipped apartments located on mountain. Off-mountain options in Heber Valley, Ogden and Salt Lake City still provide a great base for skiing and snowboarding, while also offering easy accessibility to off-mountain adventures, and all of the art, music, sport and shopping of a major metropolitan city.
Book now and save with our Early Bird Specials
Plan ahead and secure fantastic value with our all-inclusive Utah snow holiday packages. Check out a few below and reach out for more unbeatable offers.
PARK CITY
YOTELPAD – Stay 7 nights, save 20%
As Park City’s newest residence hotel, YOTELPAD sets the social scene in Canyons Village. Design equals comfort in the smartly designed and transformable PADs, where every element is sleek, modern and functional.
Exclusive offer: 7 nights accommodation in a 2 Bedroom PAD including Epic 6 Day Passes for 2 adults + 2 children. Package includes a Family All-Access Pass to Woodward, Park City’s progressive snow playground.
From $11,420 for travel dates in January 2024
DEER VALLEY
The Chateaux at Deer Valley
Nestled amid the majestic Park City mountains, The Chateaux at Deer Valley offers exemplary service and amenities. Mere steps from Deer Valley Resort and a short ride to Historic Main Street, The Chateaux has recently launched a new outdoor heated pool, courtyard and fitness centre.
Exclusive offer: 7 nights accommodation for 2 people in a Hotel King Room. Package includes a half-day, guided snowmobile trail tour in Heber Valley. Ski Deer Valley on the 2023/24 Ikon Pass
From $14,140 for travel dates in January 2024
PARK CITY
Sundial Lodge
Just steps away from the Red Pine Gondola and the slopes of Canyons Village, the lodge offers guest rooms, studios, one and two bedroom condominiums in a tasteful mountain style. The condos have well-equipped kitchens, fireplaces and private balconies. The rooftop swimming pool with hot tub and plunge pool is a popular place to relax at the end your day.
Exclusive offer: 7 nights accommodation in a 2 Bedroom Suite including Epic 6 Day Passes for 2 adults + 2 children. Package includes Ice Castles and Homestead Crater family admissions in Heber Valley
From $16,250 for travel dates in January 2024
HEBER VALLEY
Homestead Resort
Homestead Resort in the beautiful Heber Valley offers a charming alternative to on mountain accommodations. With spectacular surroundings and friendly hospitality, the resort offers a limitless array of exciting outdoor adventures and easy access to Deer Valley Resort.
Exclusive offer: 7 nights accommodation for 2 adults + 2 children in a Modern Double Queen with Twin Bunks, plus family admissions to the Ice Castles and Homestead Crater in Heber Valley where you can soak, snorkel or scuba dive inside a 55-foot limestone cavern. Ski Deer Valley Resort from the Homestead Resort on the 2023/24 Ikon Pass
From $3724 for travel dates in January 2024
ALTA
Snowpine Lodge – Stay 7 nights, save 10%
The luxury Snowpine Lodge offers magnificent mountain views, unmatched ski-in/ski-out access to Alta Ski Resort and complimentary shuttle services to Snowbird Resort.
Exclusive offer: 7 nights accommodation for 2 people in a Standard King Room. Ski Alta on the 2023/24 Ikon Base Pass Plus
From $7140 for travel dates in January 2024
SNOWBIRD
The Cliff Lodge & Spa
The Cliff Lodge at Snowbird is one of North America’s most iconic ski lodges. Rooms are modern, spacious and well equipped with an array of contemporary amenities. You’ll enjoy ski-in/ski-out convenience and excellent service with a luxurious resort experience.
Exclusive offer: 7 nights accommodation in a 2 Bedroom Suite for 2 Adults + 2 Children. Ski Snowbird Resort on the 2023/24 Ikon Base Pass.
From $18,350 for travel dates in January 2024
