Utah is home to some iconic winter views. Imagine your feet dangling from the chairlift, the fresh air and warm sunshine hitting your face on a perfect blue sky day, and all around you the snow is like glitter, sparkling in every direction you look. The air is cool but your insides are warm, taking in the energy of the mountains. To your left, there is a stunning horizon line with sharp snow-capped peaks and wispy white clouds. To your right, there are skiers floating down the mountain. Perfection.
The most amazing part? These views aren’t limited to skiers and snowboarders only. Yes, you heard that correctly, you can experience Utah’s gorgeous mountains even as a non-skier. Here are six scenic chairlift rides that you won’t want to miss on your next trip to Utah.
Snowbird's Aerial Tram
No list is complete without mentioning the quintessential Aerial Tram at Snowbird. Just outside Salt Lake City up Little Cottonwood Canyon, Snowbird’s Tram offers 360-degree views overlooking the Salt Lake Valley. This 10 minute, 2,900 vertical climb, is a ride you won’t want to miss. Ending at over 11,000 feet on the top of Hidden Peak, you will be able to see views into Mineral Basin, Alta Ski Area, Salt Lake Valley, and of course, Snowbird’s epic slopes. Grab a bite at The Summit before heading back down to the Tram Plaza.
Park City’s Red Pine Gondola
In the spring of 2023, this lift received brand new gondola cabins, making it a modern, cozy, and comfortable ride. The new cabins seat eight people and feature bigger, all-around windows for optimal scenic riding. Find yourself amongst the aspens and pine trees taking in panoramic views of Park City. When you reach the top, head to Red Pine Lodge and grab a bite to eat, or simply enjoy a beer on tap and watch skiers and riders glide down the mountain.
Deer Valley’s Silver Lake Express
One of the few scenic rides where you can actually let your feet dangle on a chairlift versus riding a gondola or tram. As you exit the lift, you’ll be at the heart of skiing and riding with the energy all around you at Deer Valley's mid-mountain Silver Lake Lodge. Enjoy some warm chili, snag a beverage, and relax amongst the buzz of the mountain.
Deer Valley’s Jordanelle Gondola
It’s a unique experience to be at a ski resort, look to your side, and see a huge glistening reservoir, but that’s exactly what you get at Deer Valley’s Jordanelle Gondola. A one of a kind scenic ride that will have you in awe. Not only will the scenery blow you away, but so will the real estate. Marvel at the mansions and celebrity ski-in/ski-out properties below you as you ride. When you reach the top be sure to stay a moment and take in the beauty of Jordanelle Reservoir.
Snowbasin’s Needles Gondola
Ride the Needles Gondola at Snowbasin and take in some epic scenery. Surrounded by jagged cliffs and panoramic views, this is a sight you won’t want to miss. Once you reach the top, enjoy some lunch at Needles Lodge. Try their famous nachos for a local favorite. If it’s a sunny day, be sure to snag a spot on their large scenic patio where you can get incredible views of DeMoisy Peak.
