My confidence increased throughout my first full season in Utah, and by the end of it, I was skiing terrain that made my jaw drop at the beginning of it. I navigated easily down runs that left me perplexed during my first couple of weeks on skis, and over time I felt comfortable on all of the blue runs throughout the resort. By the end of the season, I even started building the courage to point my skis down a few of the more accessible black diamonds, confirming my transition from a beginner to an intermediate skier.
If you’ve mastered the basics and feel comfortable on green and blue runs, you’re ready to embrace the exciting next level! Shifting from a beginner to an intermediate skier in Utah unlocks a lot more runs to explore at all 15 ski resorts in the state. There are plenty of great options for beginners in Utah, but intermediate skiers can enjoy many more areas of the resorts they ski. With its diverse terrain and progressive setup, Utah is the perfect place to progress as an intermediate skier.
In this guide, we’ll explore what it means to be an intermediate skier, highlight some of Utah’s best resorts for intermediate terrain, and provide some tips to help you progress with confidence and become a better skier this season!
How to Know When You’re an Intermediate Skier
No one definition describes an intermediate skier. In fact, the definition can vary widely between regions, much like the ski resort trail rating system. Confident intermediate skiers on the East Coast are often humbled when they find themselves atop a black diamond at a Utah resort. Where is the line and what makes an intermediate skier?
Intermediate skiers typically make solid parallel turns, control their speed comfortably, and navigate blue runs with confidence. If you’re at this point, you’ve likely tested your skills on different types of snow (groomers, powder and crud), and you may have taken a brave few tries at some sustained steep runs, but you might still hesitate when it comes to black diamonds or mogul-filled runs.
Challenges for intermediates often include staying balanced on uneven surfaces, adapting to maintaining faster speeds and managing fatigue on longer runs. These are valuable areas to focus on improving and building your technique will continue to expand your skiable terrain. The more comfortable you become with these skills, the stronger your foundation will be as you progress to an advanced skier.
Best Ski Resorts in Utah for Intermediates
Utah is renowned for its role as a playground for skiers, and intermediates are especially spoiled by the amount of incredible terrain. Utah is a playground for skiers of all levels, and intermediates are especially spoiled by all their choices. Every resort has tons of options for those looking to progress as an intermediate skier in Utah, but here are a few options to get you started.
Park City Mountain
As one of the largest ski resorts in the United States, Park City Mountain boasts an impressive variety of intermediate terrain. Areas served by Silverlode, King Con, and Tombstone provide a network of blue runs with different levels of difficulty, giving you plenty of options to work on your skills. Park City has no shortage of trails to choose from and you’ll be hard-pressed to feel bored. Skiing a mix of groomed and ungroomed runs will help you work on your comfort levels in varying types of terrain.
Powder Mountain
For intermediates willing to head north in favor of a more relaxed and uncrowded atmosphere, Powder Mountain is a top choice. This expansive resort features a wealth of blue runs, such as Drifter and East 40, where you can hone your skills at your own pace. Powder Mountain’s commitment to preserving a low-density skiing experience means you’ll have plenty of space to practice and enjoy the scenery.
Deer Valley
Deer Valley Resort prides itself on its top-tier grooming. Intermediates looking to hone their carving skills will find a practice playground here. The long, sustained runs make up an interconnected system of impeccable corduroy, the perfect place for those who love to go fast and want to build confidence in linking their turns. Since skiers often visit Deer Valley for their pristine groomed runs, you can also find some fun untouched areas off the beaten trail if you know where to go and most of Deer Valley's chairlifts have a blue run!
Snowbasin
Snowbasin Resort is a haven for intermediate skiers, offering wide-open groomers that run for miles with stunning mountain views. Trails like Sweet Revenge and Needles provide the perfect combination of challenge and enjoyment, while Strawberry offers expansive top-to-bottom groomers that will leave your legs burning as you build your endurance. Snowbasin also offers plenty of intermediate-friendly off-piste terrain to explore and build your confidence in variable conditions.
Tips for Progressing as an Intermediate Skier
Moving from intermediate to advanced skiing requires a mix of technique, confidence and exploration. Here are some tips to help you on your journey:
Take a Lesson
Skiing is an activity that allows you to progress as far as you’re willing to, and the opportunities to learn never end. You’re never too good to develop new skills and taking a lesson is a great way to identify learning opportunities as an intermediate. No matter how confident you may feel on blue runs, lessons can be invaluable for finding areas to improve and refining your skills.
Explore Varied Terrain
Don’t limit yourself to groomed trails. It’s easy to find familiar paths and stick to your favorite runs. Mix it up regularly, and start experimenting with easier black runs, bumps, and powder to develop versatility. Resorts like Snowbasin and Park City offer intermediate-friendly off-piste options that allow you to explore new challenges safely.
Use Technology to Track Progress
Apps like Ski Tracks, Carv or Slopes can help you analyze your runs, track your speed and elevation, keep an eye on your heart rate, and set goals for improvement. Reviewing your performance can provide insights into areas where you can improve, especially when it comes to your cardio and endurance on the mountain.
Build Confidence Gradually
Push your limits, but don’t rush into terrain that feels overwhelming. Incremental progress, such as mastering a challenging blue run before tackling an easier black, allows for steady improvement without getting in over your head too quickly. Utah’s varied intermediate terrain is the perfect place to build a solid foundation and gradually grow your confidence.
Gear Considerations for Intermediate Skiers
Many people start their ski journey on heavy, clunky rental equipment. While this gear is great for learning, it can hold you back after a certain point. Upgrading your equipment is a great way to enhance your skiing experience as you progress.
Skis
Unlike beginner skis, intermediate models are designed for greater stability and responsiveness. These skis are often longer with a wider underfoot which enables you to explore wider varieties of terrain. Consider renting some demo skis from your local shop to get a feel for the specifics you prefer before committing to purchasing a brand-new pair.
Boots
Properly fitted boots are crucial for control and comfort. Your boots are your steering wheel for your skis. Boots for beginners usually prioritize comfort, but as you progress you should start to prioritize performance. Visiting a professional boot fitter is a good way to get an idea of things you should consider when you’re ready to upgrade your boots.
Maintenance
Regular tuning and waxing of your skis optimize performance and make it easier to handle variable conditions. If you’re unsure how to maintain your gear, many Utah resorts offer on-site services to keep your equipment in top shape. You can also find countless YouTube videos that teach you to maintain your equipment at home once you’re familiar and comfortable with your gear.
Making the Intermediate Transition
The intermediate phase of skiing is an exciting time of growth and discovery. It’s fun to explore the mountain when you have more control over where your skis take you. Skiing in Utah as an intermediate skier is the perfect backdrop for your journey and progression. With a mix of incredible terrain, expert instruction, and a supportive culture, there’s no better place to refine your skills and build confidence. Embrace the challenge, enjoy the adventure, and get ready to take your skiing to the next level!
