Winter Adventures: Skiing, Snowboarding, and Cozy Cabins in Utah
Just a short drive east of Salt Lake City, about 35 miles along the scenic Big Cottonwood Canyon, lies Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort. This mountain is famous for its steep terrain and deep powder, making it a prime destination for both skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. The iconic Peruvian Chairlift takes riders up to Hidden Peak at over 11,000 feet, where advanced runs like the Cirque and Mineral Basin offer breathtaking views of the Wasatch Range while challenging even the most skilled riders. Snowbird’s steep chutes and wide-open bowls stand out from other resorts because of their consistently light, fluffy snow, often referred to as “The Greatest Snow on Earth.” The season typically peaks from December through March when the snowfall is heaviest, turning the terrain into a winter wonderland perfect for adrenaline seekers.
About an hour southeast of Salt Lake City, Park City Mountain Resort sprawls across 7,300 acres, making it the largest ski area in the United States. The charming town of Park City, once a silver mining hub, now buzzes with après-ski energy, art galleries, and historic Main Street charm. Skiers and snowboarders can explore a variety of runs, from gentle beginner slopes at First Time to the challenging McConkey’s Bowl, a steep and often less crowded area. Park City’s unique blend of modern lift infrastructure and old-town ambiance makes it a standout destination. Visitors can enjoy the spectacular views of the Wasatch Mountains and the historic mining architecture that still peppers the town, especially magical under a blanket of fresh snow during the winter months.
Further south in Utah’s southeastern corner, the town of Brian Head sits high on the Paunsaugunt Plateau, about three hours south of Salt Lake City. Brian Head Resort boasts the highest base elevation in Utah, at 9,800 feet, which means snow lingers later into the spring season. The resort’s Cedar Breaks trail offers a spectacular descent with views of the nearby Cedar Breaks National Monument’s colorful cliffs and natural amphitheater. This area is quieter and less crowded than other Utah ski towns, providing a peaceful retreat for families and those looking to avoid the hustle. The fresh mountain air combined with the crisp winter sun creates perfect conditions for skiing and snowboarding from late November through early April.
For those who prefer the intimacy of a cozy cabin after a day on the slopes, the town of Midway, about 45 minutes southeast of Salt Lake City, offers an inviting alpine experience. Nestled in the Heber Valley, Midway is renowned for its Swiss-style architecture and natural hot springs. Visitors can rent rustic log cabins or charming chalets near the Homestead Crater, a unique geothermal hot spring inside a beehive-shaped limestone dome. After a day of carving tracks at nearby resorts like Deer Valley or Soldier Hollow, soaking in the warm mineral waters under a crisp winter sky is an unforgettable experience. The contrast between the icy winter air and the steamy waters makes Midway a perfect spot for relaxation throughout the colder months.
In the rugged terrain about 40 miles southwest of Moab, the La Sal Mountains offer a quieter, scenic alternative for winter adventurers. The La Sal Mountain Loop Road, although sometimes closed in heavy snow, provides hikers and snowshoers access to trails like the Warner Lake Trail. This moderate route ascends through alpine forests and meadows to a serene lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks, delivering peaceful winter solitude and stunning vistas. The La Sal Mountains’ unique mix of desert and mountain ecosystems creates a dramatic backdrop that contrasts with the red rock landscapes of nearby Arches and Canyonlands National Parks. Winter here is ideal for those who want to explore nature away from the crowded ski slopes, usually from December through February when the snow blankets these high elevations.
A short drive north of St. George in southern Utah, Brian Head State Park offers a different kind of winter adventure. While not as famous for downhill skiing, the park is a favorite for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling across over 20 miles of groomed trails. The towering pine forests and expansive meadows transform into a silent winter playground, perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking tranquility. The park’s elevation, around 9,600 feet, ensures reliable snow coverage from December through March, making it an accessible winter escape from the warmer desert below. Its peacefulness and wide-open spaces provide a refreshing contrast to the busier ski resorts to the north.
Back closer to Salt Lake City, the historic district of Sundance Resort, located about 90 minutes southeast, blends art, nature, and winter sports seamlessly. Founded by actor Robert Redford, Sundance is a small resort with a laid-back vibe and a strong emphasis on creativity and environmental stewardship. Guests can ski gentle runs on Mount Timpanogos or explore the resort’s extensive network of Nordic trails. Sundance is also home to the Sundance Institute and the annual film festival, connecting visitors with a rich cultural atmosphere. In winter, the snow-covered forest trails and cozy lodges offer a peaceful retreat, especially appealing during the quieter weekdays when the resort is less crowded.
Finally, no winter trip to Utah would be complete without experiencing the warmth and charm of the Wasatch Back’s Heber Valley. The town of Heber City lies about 45 minutes southeast of Salt Lake City and serves as a gateway to several winter activities. The Heber Valley Railroad offers scenic winter excursions on vintage trains through snowy landscapes, creating a nostalgic holiday atmosphere. Nearby, cabins and lodges provide welcoming fireside comfort after a day of skiing or snowshoeing in the surrounding mountains. The valley’s blend of open farmland, rolling hills, and towering peaks provides a quintessential Utah winter scene, especially magical under clear starry nights common in the region’s crisp winter air.