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Utah’s ski season is off to a strong start. Most resorts are recording the best early-season snow totals in nearly 20 years. The storms kicked off in early October and haven’t shown any signs of slowing. It feels like peak ski season arrived a couple of months early. All this to say, it’s a great time to start planning your Utah ski trip if you haven’t already.
Let’s get back to those early-season statistics for a moment. Statewide, Utah is exceeding its average snowpack by 150-200%. The resorts near Salt Lake City have about 25% more base snow than they did this time last year. Park City resorts are up about 63%, and Ogden resorts by about 57%. A handful of resorts are approaching 200” for the season, and we haven’t even rolled into the new year.
Strong snow totals are well and good, but they mean less if that snow doesn’t ski well. This is the magic of The Greatest Snow on Earth®, a brand of snow we’ve come to expect in Utah. Due to the state’s unique terrain and climate conditions, fluffy powder has become more of an expectation than an exception. And based on what we have seen this year, that expectation feels justified.
Now, for the best part. All this great snow is within easy reach of Utah’s major ski cities. All told, 11 of Utah’s 15 ski resorts are located about an hour’s drive or less from Salt Lake City International Airport, meaning you’ll get more time skiing and spend less time traveling. The adage “there are no friends on a powder day” comes to mind, although that’s not always the case. Utah is a clear winner when every minute of skiing counts.
Whether you’re after steep powdery turns or perfect groomer runs, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Utah. Before you start planning your trip, a couple of tips for you. Be sure to secure your lodging and parking reservations in advance, prepare to ski safely and consider taking a lesson, pack extra layers and explore the many off-mountain activities that will upgrade your ski trip from great to unforgettable.
November 10, 2023
