Near Ogden, Utah lies a resort that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of city life, freeways, traffic and civilization. Discover Snowbasin Resort, an official 2002 Winter Olympic venue known for its bowls, glades, powder stashes, tremendous groomers, fine dining and luxe amenities.
Relish the rich heritage of Snowbasin and test your mettle on the slopes that hosted the Men’s and Women’s Downhill, Super G, Combined and Paralympic ski racing events in the 2002 Winter Olympics. Don't miss our Snowbasin history article here.
This resort contains a well-rounded mix of beginner, intermediate and advanced terrain serviced by modern, high-speed lifts. This is the place to come stack some vertical, enjoy untracked powder, uncrowded slopes, steep glades, open bowls and some of the longest groomers in Utah. The gentle terrain near the base is perfect for families just starting out with skiing and snowboarding and the proximity to Earl's Lodge is convenient for those with young children. When you head indoors, soak in the luxurious décor, thickly carpeted floors, roaring fireplaces and stonework. Take five in a plush wingback chair and just enjoy the cozy scene.
Snowbasin's Location
Snowbasin Resort is located over the mountain ridge and east of Ogden, Utah. Approximate driving times (in favorable driving conditions) and distances are listed below:
Ogden: 20 miles – 30 minutes
Salt Lake City: 42 miles – 50 minutes
Logan: 71 miles – 1 hour, 15 minutes
Provo: 86 miles – 1 hour, 30 minutes
St. George: 345 miles – 4 hours, 50 minutes
In a 5th Grader’s Words: “The terrain can be calm and cruisy with rollers that you can catch air on or it can be challenging with moguls through the trees. The runs are really long to practice turns and everybody can ski what they want.” -Emily, Age 10
Snowbasin's Terrain & Mountain Stats
Skiable Acres: 2,950 AcresVertical Drop: 2,915 Feet
Number of Runs: 114
Terrain: 20% Beginner, 50% Intermediate, 30% Advanced & 26km of Nordic Skiing Trails
Chairlifts: 7 Chairlifts, 2 Gondolas, 1 Tram, 3 Surface Lifts
Average Snowfall: 325"
Night Skiing: No
Snowbasin's Terrain
Snowbasin Resort is just 30 minutes from Ogden and 50 minutes from downtown Salt Lake, but it feels a world away from the hubbub of the busy Wasatch Front. It’s a worthy place to escape, enjoy family time and savor a special meal together. It’s a great resort for families of wildly different abilities because the variety of terrain provides diversion for all skill levels.
Beginners will either check-in 45 minutes early at Snowbasin Snow Sports School for lessons or warm up on the Littlecat Express chairlift which services the Powder Puff green-rated trail. Near the Grizzly Center, true beginners will discover two short magic carpets to get a feel for things on gentle terrain.
If you’re ready to take it up a notch or start your day on blue-rated runs, hop aboard the Becker chairlift. The Slo Road to Bear Hollow to Snow Shoe runs are all gentle enough for learners to build their confidence. Intermediate skiers can drop into Willow or head for the Strawberry Gondola via Bear Springs. The Wildcat handle tow allows access to the blue-rated Showboat or Orson's runs.
Intermediate skiers have tons of options with blue-rated terrain accessible from all lifts excluding the Allen Peak Tram. The Needles Gondola swiftly takes riders from the base to the Needles Lodge. Discover a thigh-burning groomer on the Needles Run. There are also terrain parks accessible from either the Needles Gondola or the Wildcat Express. At the south end of the resort lies the Strawberry Gondola with open bowls and scenic groomers. Enjoy sweeping views of Ogden, the Great Salt Lake and Ogden Valley on Elk Ridge to Main Street.
Pro Tip: See if you can ski Snowbasin’s longest run without stopping, the Elk Ridge blue-rated run off the top of Strawberry Gondola.
Expert skiers and snowboarders will want to experience the double black terrain of Sister’s Bowl, Middle Bowl Cirque and Lone Tree from Strawberry Gondola. There is also ample black diamond terrain accessible via the Porcupine and John Paul Express chairlifts. On the northern end of the resort you’ll find steep tree skiing and the world-famous Olympic downhill courses as well as incredible views from the John Paul Lodge.
Pro Tip: You’ll want to experience the ‘beer can’ style tramway that once dropped Olympians atop the Downhill Courses. The views from the Allen Peak Tram are also jaw dropping. If you’re feeling a little dizzy you can ride right back down the tram. It's worth the trip!
Parking & Public Transportation
Parking remains free at Snowbasin though priority parking will be provided to those who carpool with three or more riders. Snowbasin has worked hard to expand parking lots and has doubled their bus service.
Season passholders at Snowbasin enjoy free UTA Ski Bus access to enjoy an affordable and hassle free transit option to the resort. Consider riding the UTA Ski Bus to avoid driving and help reduce road and parking congestion. In the winter months, the Utah Transit Authority (UTA), runs daily service from November or December until March from Ogden and Davis County to Snowbasin. Check the UTA website for a current schedule and read our Guide to Ride the Ski Bus.
Base Area & Resort Logistics
Needles
The heart of Snowbasin's base area and home of Needles Lodge, this zone serves up most of Snowbasin's beginner and intermediate terrain. Swoop down world-class groomers or get radical in the three terrain parks.
Strawberry
Strawberry encompasses wide open bowls and huge groomers that undulate on rolling terrain. This zone is best for intermediate and advanced folks and offers awesome tree skiing and technical terrain in Sister's Bowl. Strawberry should be avoided in very foggy weather as navigation can become quite difficult.
John Paul
John Paul offers steep tree skiing and the world-famous Grizzly & Wildflower Downhill Courses from the 2002 Salt Lake Winter Games. Soar even higher on the Allen Peak Tram for wild views of multiple states on clear days. This portion of the mountain offers steep blue or black rated trails. If you want to dine at the John Paul Lodge without skiing down, it is possible to download on the John Paul Express chairlift. Note that this is probably not a great option for families with children who are afraid of heights and we'd recommend dining at the mountaintop Needles lodge instead.
Begin your day by parking in one of the terraced lots and catching an open-air shuttle to Earl’s Lodge if necessary. Remember that carpoolers earn priority parking on weekends! At the base area, you’ll find grinning Snowbasin employees near the bronze moose statue, eager to answer any questions you may have.
Lift tickets can be purchased from the ticket window outside of the Grizzly Center, the equipment rental desk inside the Grizzly Center or at the activities desk inside Earl’s Lodge. You can save a little bit of money by purchasing tickets in advance online and picking them up in the pre-purchase line outside the Grizzly Center. Snowbasin has award-winning restrooms and once you take a peep you'll understand. Parents may find it easier to take their children to the restrooms in the Grizzly Center which don't require navigating a flight of stairs.
Snowbasin offers an onsite basket check for gear on the lower level of Earl’s Lodge. The Guest Service Center also checks small and large bags or loose items for safekeeping during the day.
Rental equipment is located in the Grizzly Center adjacent to Earl’s Lodge. An overnight ski check is available here for $5.
Snowbasin Snowsports School
Pro Tip: Make sure to book your lesson and rental equipment in advance to guarantee availability.
Learn & Earn
Snowbasin’s nationally ranked and wildly successful Learn & Earn program guides students on a 3-year journey to take never-ever skiers and snowboarders to proficiency and total enjoyment of snow sports. Deals, packages and specials incentivize learners to continue their progression and momentum. This program always sells out prior to the start of each season so it is wise to book early because you can save up to 80%!
Adaptive Lessons
Adaptive skiers can partner with Ogden Valley Adaptive Sports Program (OVAS) for adaptive lessons at Snowbasin. Adaptive lessons build self-confidence and better self-esteem by overcoming perceived limitations with certified adaptive instructors on the latest equipment. To schedule an adaptive sports experience or to find out more information contact OVAS at 801-695-7074
Private Lessons
Offered in all-day or half-day formats, Snowbasin’s Private Lessons are unique in that you may include up to 5 guests. Snowbasin’s instructors strive to forge a personal relationship with their students and provide an exceptional experience to achieve target goals. One very unique and tempting aspect of Snowbasin’s Private Lesson program: guests can request early gondola/lift access one hour prior to the public opening. Reservations are recommended.
Adult Lessons (Ages 13+)
Adult group lessons are all-day lessons available for every experience level for skiers and snowboarders aged 13 and up. Lessons run from 10 AM to 3 PM and there is an option to upgrade to the All-Inclusive Package which includes the lesson, rental equipment, and a lift ticket. Lessons can be purchased in one, two or three day blocks. Peak/holiday pricing will increase the cost of lessons.
Youth Lessons
Children are grouped by age and ability level in Snowbasin’s award-winning Snow Sports School. Instructors tailor lessons around the needs and abilities of all students aged 3 (Kinder Cubs), 4-6 (Cubs) or 7-12 (Bears).
Snowbasin also offers seasonal programming for kiddos to refine and perfect their skills over the course of multiple lessons. There are two four-week sessions to choose from. Programming is offered for ages 3-12. Children 13-15 may sign up for the Adventure Team which is designed to transform teenagers into all-mountain shredders. Click here for programming info, session dates and pricing.
Women on Wednesdays
Instruction by women for women happens every Wednesdays to provide customized coaching of women at any ability in a relaxed and supportive atmosphere. Build skills and confidence on the mountain with early gondola access during four days of coaching in your session. Click here for more info and session dates.
Ski Shop & Equipment Rentals
Pro Tip: Make sure to book equipment rentals in advance!
Snowbasin Rental Shop maintains a top-of-the-line rental fleet just steps from the snow. A few tiers of equipment rentals and demos are available and multi-day rental packages can save some pennies. Don’t forget the All-Inclusive Package which bundles a lesson, equipment rental, and a lift ticket into one price. Snowbasin’s rental packages include skis or a snowboard, boots, poles and a helmet. The following items are also available to rent:
Helmets (included in equipment rental packages, required for under 18)
Ski Poles
Goggles
The Grizzly Center Retail Shop curates a wide selection of gifts, equipment, outerwear, accessories, logo gear, sundries, artwork, lip balm, sunscreen, and unique European brands including Dale of Norway, Obermeyer, Karbon, etc.
Dining & Lodging at Snowbasin
LODGING
Snowbasin Resort does not offer any slopeside lodging, but the resort has teamed up with top-rated lodging partners in Ogden Valley and neighboring Ogden to provide a memorable experience and excellent customer service. Snowbasin recommends Lakeside Resort Properties (with a complimentary ski shuttle), the Wolf Creek Rentals, and the luxe and comfy Compass Rose Lodge (pictured below). Visit Ski Utah's lodging tool or check out our article on Ogden Valley's best lodging - click here.
DINING
There are four different areas to dine—three of which are located on the slopes—making it easy to grab a bite from just about anywhere at Snowbasin.
In Earl’s Lodge from the main base area there are two dining options: Earl’s Servery and Cinnabar Lounge. Note that families or groups with beginners or learners will most likely want to eat here, as there are no green-rated runs to access the remaining three lodges. Earl’s Servery offers cafeteria-style dining in an upscale atmosphere with gorgeous views and six crackling fireplaces. Seating is also available outside with firepits and slopeside views and access. Breakfast is available (don’t miss the pastries) and the diverse lunch menu will keep even the pickiest eaters satisfied. It's possible to download the Needles Gondola if beginning skiers or non-skiers want to experience the splendor without skiing down. Don't miss Sunday brunch!
The Cinnabar is the après hub at Snowbasin. This gastropub features a family-friendly atmosphere with a full wine and bar menu and craft cocktails. On weekends reservations are recommended for plated brunch or a cozy meal alongside live music.
Pro Tip: The best dining deal at Snowbasin is the loaded pizza at Earl’s Lodge. Feed the whole fam!
Atop Snowbasin's lofty heights you’ll find the Needles Lodge offering a scenic mountain top lunch with a sunny outdoor patio at the top of the Needles Gondola. Views of the Ogden Valley are complemented with a southwest-inspired menu. Typical ski resort fare like hamburgers, sandwiches, soups, garden salads, and pitas are also available. The Overlook at Snowbasin Resort, a stunning 21+ bar added in 2021, serves a variety of beer, wine, and spirits and a specialty food menu.
With equally inspiring views, the John Paul Lodge is situated at the top of the John Paul chairlift. Diners can gape at dramatic 360-degree views and imagine Olympians blitzing down the adjacent 2002 Olympic race course. Don’t miss the Belgian waffles for breakfast! For lunch the savory options include chili, wood fired pizza, delectable sandwiches, grilled meats and fresh salads. The terrain off the John Paul lift is only appropriate for strong intermediate or advanced skiers, however rides down the chairlift are offered for those who still want to experience the John Paul Lodge. (Those who are scared of heights will probably not enjoy the ride down.)
For those lapping Strawberry Gondola, there is the Snowbasin Strawberry Cafe at the gondola base. The gourmet sausages or Chicken Po' Boys should not be missed. This is a great spot to stop for a latte, a pastry or warm up with soup or freshly made wraps and sandwiches. There is a grab-and-go menu for those who are busy stacking vert. The recently expanded patio is ideal for sunny days.
It should be noted that outside food and beverages are not permitted in Snowbasin’s lodges.
Childcare
On-site childcare is not currently offered at Snowbasin. If you don’t want to book kids in ski or snowboard lessons, Snowbasin recommends the High Altitude Kids center nearby in Eden, Utah for childcare for toddlers 18 months in age through 10 years of age. This educational and recreational facility provides creative programming, developmental activities, and exercises to foster social, cognitive and emotional growth in children.Medical Facilities
Points of Interest
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Flowrider, Ogden, Utah
In Ogden at the Salomon Center you’ll find an indoor hybrid waterpark with an endless wave. Combining the sports of surfing, skateboarding, wakeboarding, snowboarding and bodyboarding, the Flowrider encompasses the thrilling sport of flowboarding atop a moving wave on a ramp. Sessions start every hour on the hour. Reservations are required.
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Ogden Nature Center
Located in the heart of Ogden is a 152-acre oasis; a nature preserve with an educational center open to the public year-round. The Ogden Nature Center offers a wide variety of educational programming, walking trails and workshops. Children will enjoy meeting birds of prey, a treehouse, bird watching from bird blinds and the view from the lofty spotting tower.
Visit Snowbasin's Website & Learn More
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