Arrival & The Cottonwoods
Fly into Salt Lake City International Airport, just a short 30–45-minute drive from Utah’s top ski resorts. For this first part of your spring break ski trip, I suggest checking into an Airbnb or hotel in Cottonwood Heights. This neighborhood on Salt Lake’s east side is at the base of both Big Cottonwood Canyon (with Solitude Mountain Resort and Brighton) and Little Cottonwood Canyon (with Snowbird and Alta Ski Area). With great restaurant and bar options and access to both canyons, this neighborhood makes for a great central location to explore what four of Utah’s popular resorts have to offer. Explore and book lodging options here.
Start your spring break in Little Cottonwood Canyon at Snowbird, famous for its steep terrain, long runs, and incredible spring snow conditions. Take the iconic Aerial Tram to the 11,000-foot Hidden Peak for stunning views and some serious vert as you make your way down. For those easing into the trip, Mid-Gad and Baby Thunder offer gentler terrain.
Après ski: Grab a bite at The Tram Club (21+) or unwind at the rooftop pool of The Cliff Spa.
Right next door to Snowbird, Alta is a must-visit for skiers (sorry, snowboarders—this resort is ski-only). Known for its legendary powder and laid-back vibe, Alta provides an authentic skiing experience with terrain for all levels.
When your legs need a break, enjoy lunch at Alf’s Restaurant or newly opened Igloo at The Snowpine Lodge. Advanced skiers can challenge themselves on High Rustler, while families and intermediate skiers will enjoy Catherine’s Area.
*Pro-tip: If you want to check out Snowbird and Alta on the same day, you’re able to purchase an Alta-Bird single-day or multi-day ticket (available at both resort’s ticket windows).
Après ski: Head back to Cottonwood Heights for dinner at Porcupine Pub & Grill, a local favorite.
Make sure to check out Big Cottonwood Canyon and explore two more iconic Utah resorts. Solitude Mountain Resort offers wide-open runs and little to no lift lines, while Brighton is a favorite for families and snowboarders (and don't forget the night skiing!).
Skiers can access both resorts with an Ikon Pass, including unlimited days at Solitude and either five or seven days at Brighton.
Après ski: Stop by Silver Fork Lodge for homemade comfort food before heading back to Salt Lake City.
Park City – The Largest Resort to Explore
If you’d rather not have to pack up and find lodging in Park City, staying in Cottonwood Heights is just a 45-minute drive to Park City, home to the largest resort in the United States boasting over 7,300 acres of skiing and riding! If you’d rather minimize the daily drive time and experience Park City’s dining and nightlife scene, there are plenty of awesome lodging options in Park City.
Make sure to plan for a full day at Park City Mountain! Explore over 7,300 acres of terrain with plenty of runs for skiers of all abilities. For a fun on-mountain break, (or for people in your party who do not ski/ride!) take a ride on the Mountain Coaster and cascade over a mile of track through trees and over ski runs at speeds up to 25 mph.
Après ski: Enjoy a lively evening at High West Distillery and Saloon, offering gourmet bites and locally distilled whiskey. Fun fact: With a little extra planning to make sure you can ski back or hop on a bus back to your car, you can ski right down to High West under Town Lift!
Make sure to budget time to experience the elegance of Deer Valley Resort, known for its impeccable grooming, limited daily lift tickets, and five-star service (A.K.A. The Deer Valley Difference). After some top-notch runs indulge in a gourmet lunch at Royal Street Cafe or The Sticky Wicket (21+).
Après ski: Enjoy Deer Valley’s new East Village, stunning views of the Jordanelle Reservoir, and inventive cocktails at The Lounge at Remington Hall at the Grand Hyatt Deer ValleyDeer Valley.
Bonus: Ski Utah’s Passport Program for Kids
If you’re traveling with kids in 4th, 5th, or 6th grade, take advantage of the Ski Utah Passport Program, which offers three days of skiing at each of Utah’s 15 resorts for just $89. This is an unbeatable (and extremely affordable) way to explore multiple resorts during your spring break trip. And yes, any kid in 4th, 5th and 6th grade can take advantage - even those coming from out of state!
We hope to see you in Utah this Spring Break. We're confident you won't be disappointed on the slopes!
