With a multitude of resorts within an hour of Salt Lake International Airport, you can turn your ski vacation into a road trip. There are a few multi-resort passes available, but for this trip, I’m going to use the Ikon Pass as an example. The Ikon Pass allows you to sample The Greatest Snow on Earth® at six resorts, each with its own highlights.
You can use this itinerary in either direction depending on your preference. Note that Alta and Deer Valley are skier only (no snowboarding), so adjust those days if you ride a snowboard.
Day 1 - Alta Ski Area
Alta is known for deep snow, averaging over 500 inches per year. The terrain ranges from mellow greens to steep tree runs. If you’re looking to warm up your legs, head to Sunnyside Lift for a few mellow green runs before heading over to Sugarloaf or Supreme for some long rolling blue trails. I love lapping Supreme Lift to Big Dipper! Trail ratings at Alta are legit; black diamond means expert, so start below your ability level to feel it out. There’s plenty of terrain for every level of skier.
Lodging
Alta has several lovely lodging options. I especially enjoy the The Snowpine Lodge because it also has an excellent spa with a heated plunge pool nestled in a stone grotto. It’s a delightful way to relax after a day on the slopes. Because Alta and Snowbird are adjacent, you could spend both nights in the same lodge. For more on Alta's lodging, visit my blog about the five independently owned, unique hotels that sit near the base area.
Dining
You can’t beat the views from Alf’s Restaurant, located on the mountain near the base of Sugarloaf and Supreme Lifts. For après, don't miss Slopeside Cafe and The Peruvian Bar, both local watering holes that shouldn't be skipped.
Day 2 - Snowbird
With over 3,240 vertical feet to ski and over 11,000-foot peaks, Snowbird will give your legs a workout. That said, there are fun beginner runs as well, so don’t let its reputation as an expert hill deter you. Do check the maps before hopping on a lift to ensure there are trails at your skill level.
Lodging
The Cliff Lodge sits just steps from skiing and offers sweeping mountain views. I appreciate their ample atrium lounge area, where you can grab a coffee and watch skiers through the towering windows.
Dining
Do not miss dining at The Summit, Utah’s highest restaurant, which is located on top of Hidden Peak. They serve wood-fired pizza, paninis, sandwiches, and seasonal dishes. Ride Snowbird’s gondola whether on foot, skis, or a snowboard (your Ikon Pass gives you access). The menu is limited on weekdays, but the views are worth it seven days a week! For après, the Tram Club is an excellent stop nestled beneath the bottom tram terminal.
Day 3 - Solitude Mountain Resort
Solitude is a delightful mix of beginner/intermediate trails and expert terrain. There really is plenty for every ability, plus there are lots of off slope amenities for those who don’t feel like skiing. Ikon Pass holders can ski unlimited days at Solitude, so consider adding days here if you have the time. Expert skiers shouldn’t miss the legendary Honeycomb Canyon if it’s open.
Lodging
Solitude offers plenty of lodging options, and it’s close enough to Brighton that it could be your base for that ski day as well. The Inn at Solitude was named the #10 Best Ski Hotel by USA Today’s Readers’ Choice in 2024. This ski-in/ski-out Bavarian lodge has a charming vibe with high-end amenities like plush robes, a full-service spa and a heated pool.
Dining
Refuel at the Roundhouse, serving Himalayan-inspired dishes mid-mountain. Situated around a 360° fireplace, it’s a relaxing place to warm up. On sunny days, head out to the patio for a side of views with your meal. Don't miss the curry fries! For après, locals tend to visit the Thirsty Squirrel tucked away in the village.
Day 4 - Brighton
Brighton is a Utah local’s favorite for a reason. It’s casual, friendly, and delivers a wide variety of terrain. Warm up by hopping on the Majestic Lift and riding the tree-lined Mary Back trail down. There are also some chill runs off Milly Lift. My go-to favorite terrain is off of Snake Creek Express, which offers runs from beginner to expert with shorter lines than the lifts at the base.
Lodging
Brighton Lodge sits just steps from Crest Express Lift. It’s convenient, cozy, and they offer some “stay and ski” deals worth checking out. They also have a dorm-style option. Additionally, you could check out short-term rentals in the area or pop back down to Solitude.
Dining
Molly Greens is a tradition at Brighton. Stop in for a burger and a pint around the large fireplace with windows looking over the mountain. Nachos are also a winning bet. Note that the main upstairs dining area is over 21 only. Head across the lot to Milly Chalet for full-service dining for the whole family.
Day 5 - Deer Valley
Deer Valley Resort is synonymous with excellence. It’s the perfect stop after four days of leg-pounding skiing. Treat yourself to perfectly groomed runs, luxury amenities, and stunning views. Most lifts offer runs for all skill levels. Don’t let the corduroy trails fool you, though. Deer Valley is also home to the Daly Chutes, some of the most extreme runs in Utah.
Lodging
There are so many lodging options at Deer Valley, it’s hard to highlight just one. You could choose to stay at a slopeside ski-in/ski-out option, or you could stay in town to enjoy Park City and its bustling mountain culture. More on Deer Valley lodging options here.
Dining
Treat yourself to a luxury meal and experience at Chute Eleven, a cozy champagne yurt, where ski gear gets traded for champagne flutes and caviar. The menu has an emphasis on gourmet seafood, cocktails and wine.
Day 6 - Snowbasin Resort
Last stop on our snow tour is Snowbasin Resort, which was voted the 2024 "Top Ski Resort in the West" by SKI Magazine readers. From wide groomed runs to steep chutes, Snowbasin delivers fun for skiers of all abilities. Snowbasin is known as one of the 2002 Olympic Games venues – specifically the Wildflower and Grizzly runs. With over 3,000 acres of terrain, 13 lifts, and 115 trails, you’ll have lots to explore.
Lodging
While there isn’t any on-mountain lodging, there are plenty of options nearby. Check out the Alaskan Inn or Compass Rose Lodge for boutique accommodations, or check out nearby cabins and homes.
Dining
Snowbasin has fantastic dining options. The Needles Lodge location on mountain at 8,700 feet is accessible by gondola. It offers great views, a diverse menu with some shifting chef’s specials, and a cozy atmosphere. Reservations required.
And that’s a wrap! From Snowbasin, the drive back to Salt Lake is straightforward and fast as most of it’s on the interstate. Or you could plan a final night in the city to take in some of Salt Lake’s foodie scene and the Utah Mammoth NHL team.
If you plan to drive yourself from mountain to mountain, read this post on Winter Driving Tips for Utah Ski Resorts.
Here is another helpful post: The Simplest Way to Book Lodging for Your Utah Vacation.
