Utah's Best Ski Towns
Utah is an outdoor lovers' dream throughout all seasons of the year, whether you're exploring its many national parks or hitting the slopes after a good dump of snow. If you're not a fan of hiking in the cold this winter, the best alternative, then, is to go skiing or snowboarding at one (or more) of the state's many world-class peaks.
A number of Utah's popular mountains have nearby towns that revolve around the bustling ski season. From luxurious ski resorts to other amenities and attractions to keep you cozy and entertained before or after a day out, let's take a deeper look at why these communities are considered to be top choices for your next downhill adventure this winter in Utah.
Park City
Park City is widely recognized as one of the premier ski destinations in the United States, let alone Utah. Located a very short drive east of Salt Lake City, this town combines a mix of world-class skiing facilities with a cultural scene that can be enjoyed at any time throughout the year.
Park City Mountain Resort, the largest ski resort in the country, contains over 7,300 acres of skiable terrain, ranging from beginner slopes to more advanced runs. This massive resort and ski area is not the only option nearby, however. Perhaps less crowded is Deer Valley Resort, which offers a more exclusive skiing experience, with meticulously groomed trails and a no-snowboard policy.
Beyond skiing, you can easily spend an afternoon exploring the area’s other offerings. For one, late January and early February bring the Sundance Film Festival to town, a renowned event held here annually. If you're looking to stay outside, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails surround the area as well, providing alternatives to downhill skiing.
The town itself has an interesting history as a silver mining community, which is evident in its charming downtown. Here you can also visit the Park City Museum to learn more about this mining heritage. The downtown core is also very walkable and houses a good selection of amenities like hotels, outfitters, and restaurants. The No Name Saloon is a particularly popular waterhole, especially if you enjoy its rustic Western vibe.
Brian Head
Brian Head sits in southern Utah, and is the state’s highest altitude town, with a base elevation of 9,800 feet and a max elevation of 11,307 feet at the top of Brian Head Peak. The Brian Head Resort, spread across two connected mountains—Giant Steps and Navajo, covers 650 acres and caters to both skiers and snowboarders. The resort has beginner-friendly hills on Navajo Mountain, while Giant Steps offers steeper runs and terrain parks for more advanced riders.
Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Brian Head provides accessible activities and amenities such as night skiing and tubing hills for those who do not necessarily want to ski or snowboard, making it an ideal destination for groups or people who want to enjoy the mountains of Utah in the winter in different kinds of ways. With an average annual snowfall of 360 inches and a state-of-the-art snowmaking system, conditions remain consistent throughout the season at this ski destination.
Brian Head has more than just world-class winter resorts and is very close to a number of wonderful natural landmarks. For example, the community is just minutes from Cedar Breaks National Monument, where you can embark on a snowshoeing or cross-country skiing outing amid the striking red rock formations that exemplify Utah's deserty wildlands. In warmer months, the area transforms into a hub for hiking and mountain biking, with countless trails to choose from.
The world-famous Zion National Park is also a less than hour-long drive south of Brian Head. Winter is an excellent time to visit, as the often dense summer crowds are agone and the ability to drive your car into the park is open.
At just over three hours from Las Vegas and under four hours from Salt Lake City, Brian Head combines reliable snow, a small-town atmosphere, and access to southern Utah’s unique landscapes for a memorable getaway year-round.
Ogden Valley
Ogden Valley, home to the ski areas of Snowbasin, Powder Mountain, and Nordic Valley, is a scenic ski community toward the northern edge of Utah. Located about an hour north of Salt Lake City, the valley includes the small towns of Eden and Huntsville, which provide a relaxed base for exploring some of the region’s best ski resorts.
Snowbasin, a venue for the 2002 Winter Olympics, holds 3,000 acres of terrain from challenging downhill runs and groomed trails to luxurious facilities to relax in during your visit. Powder Mountain, another one of the largest ski areas in the United States, spreads across 8,464 acres and is famous for its uncrowded slopes and emphasis on a backcountry-style experience. Nordic Valley, the smallest of the three, caters more to families and beginners with affordable prices and an assortment of shorter hills.
Off the slopes, Ogden Valley’s natural beauty shines with Pineview Reservoir, a popular local spot for ice fishing and a great place to go for an easy winter hike. Get out of the cold and check out Huntsville’s historic Shooting Star Saloon, Utah’s oldest continuously operating bar. Nearby, the busy downtown area of Ogden showcases yet more historic architecture, local restaurants, and the Utah State Railroad Museum.
Alta
Alta, located at the amazingly scenic head of Little Cottonwood Canyon in the Wasatch Mountains, is a legendary ski town known for its exceptional snow quality in Utah. Averaging over 545 inches of snowfall annually (with recent years measuring nearly 630 inches!), it draws skiers from around the world seeking some of the most reliable powder in the United States.
The Alta Ski Area, one of the oldest ski resorts in the country, covers about 2,614 acres of terrain, offering an array of challenging runs for advanced skiers while maintaining accessible slopes for beginners too. Please note that Snowboarding is not permitted here, preserving its traditional skiing focus.
Unlike larger ski towns, Alta maintains a fairly quiet, unpretentious atmosphere. The town is small, with a permanent population hovering just around 300, and only a few lodges and restaurants catering to visitors. This community's main focus remains firmly on the skiing experience, making it a true American ski town. Many accommodations offer ski-in, and ski-out convenience, making it easy for you to maximize your time on the slopes.
Alta’s proximity to Salt Lake City—just over 20 miles away—adds to its appeal, allowing for easy travel while offering a remote mountain setting.
Backcountry skiing options nearby abound for those seeking some outdoor adventure beyond the resort boundaries. Be sure to bring your camera and lots of warm clothing!
Enjoy Your Next Ski Adventure in Utah
These ski towns stand out for their unparalleled snow quality, diversity of terrain, and welcoming communities that are honestly fun to visit at any time of the year, let alone the winter. From the world-class resorts of Park City and Snowbird to the small-town vibes of Alta and Brian Head, each destination mentioned here will offer you a unique experience tailored to skiers (and sometimes snowboarders) of all abilities.
Aside from the slopes, these towns were chosen for their attractions, whether cultural, historical, or natural, ensuring there’s something for every type of traveler.
Whether you’re drawn to challenging backcountry trails, family-friendly slopes, or après-ski relaxation, Utah clearly delivers as a top spot in the United States for a ski vacation.
