Family Ski Resort Guide | Nordic Valley

Family-friendly vibes and a low-key atmosphere make Nordic Valley an ideal destination for those looking for a ski area where they can relax off the beaten track. Primarily a locals’ hill, Nordic Valley is typically free of crowds and the friendly prices are easy on the wallet. The area’s abundant gentle terrain is approachable for skiers or boarders who have never ever tried the sport. For people new to winter sports, the slopes of Nordic Valley can be a lot less overwhelming than those of Utah’s larger, busier resorts. Kids can freely explore the main mountain without any fears of getting lost or disoriented. 

Nordic Valley's commitment to supporting the local ski scene is clear with its no strings attached Power Kids pass. This FREE no-strings-attached season pass is available to any child aged 12 or younger and no purchase is necessary. Even better, it's valid at seven partner resorts including Utah's Brian Head.

Pro Tip: Nordic Valley illuminates a huge portion of the mountain for night skiing so it’s an ideal spot to take some laps after school on a weekday or enjoy a weekend adventure.



Of all Utah’s resorts, Nordic Valley is one of the most accessible and budget-friendly options. For this reason, it is a particularly excellent place to learn the art of skiing or snowboarding and work towards proficiency. Fun fact: this boutique ski area was a training ground for the 2002 Olympians—you can learn more history here—and local kids will often train for alpine racing in the afternoons and evenings. Due to its close proximity to Ogden and their night skiing operations, Nordic Valley is ideally situated for city dwellers looking for a quick escape to nature.

Due to Nordic Valley’s later start time during weekdays, it’s actually a pretty sweet spot to hit on a snowy powder day in the late morning. People seldom think to bag first tracks at this resort and there are some nice lines for expert powder skiers to harvest.

Nordic Valley is located near Eden, Utah. Approximate driving times (in favorable driving conditions) and distances are listed below:
Ogden: 16 miles – 30 minutes
Logan: 52 miles – 1 hour, 10 minutes
Salt Lake City: 54 miles – 1 hour, 15 minutes
Provo: 98 miles – 1 hour, 45 minutes
St. George: 355 miles – 5 hours


In a 5th Grader’s Words:
“I like Nordic Valley because I can ski there with my little brother and ski all the runs. When we’re tired, we go down to the Old Barn and play cards or games and the hot chocolate is my favorite” - Jake, Age 10

TERRAIN & MOUNTAIN STATS

Skiable Acres: 450 Acres
Vertical Drop: 1,400 Feet
Number of Runs: 32 and growing
Terrain: 25% Beginner, 45% Intermediate, 30% Advanced, 1 Terrain Park
Chairlifts: 4 and 1 Surface Lift
Night Skiing: Yes, 80% of terrain is illuminated - hours vary
Deals for Kids: Kids 12 and younger qualify for a FREE Power Kids season pass, valid at 8 resorts

Nordic Valley is located in Ogden Valley near the small town of Eden, Utah. It’s just 10 miles from Powder Mountain and 19 miles from Snowbasin Resort. Families visiting Nordic Valley won’t have a hard time sticking together because there is just one common base area. The wide-open groomers provide a great environment for learners gaining confidence or speed demons looking to rail some turns.

Learners can start on the surface lift adjacent to the Old Barn which provides access to a very gentle slope.

The Crockett chairlift serves up mellow slopes ideal for learners and those who want to lap the terrain park. Since nearly half the terrain at Nordic Valley is rated intermediate, there are plenty of options for those who want to refine their skills and gain confidence. Give the Little Bear green run a try.

For adrenaline junkies, Nordic Valley’s terrain park can be accessed from either the Crockett or Bridger chairlifts. Over 40 features are incorporated into the terrain park for beginner or intermediate freestyle skiers and snowboarders. Rails, box features, rollers and kickers will keep kids entertained for hours.

Catch the Apollo double chair to reach steeper and longer trails at Nordic Valley. The Old Barn run is a green-rated trail that encompasses the entire vertical of the hill and the crowning achievement for learners to conquer. Gold Rush is a bit steeper and rated blue. Powderhounds or experts should head for Falling Star (a Hollywood line beneath the lift), Ephraim’s Revenge, or Buck Shot for face shots and steeper terrain.

Don't miss the new Nordic Valley Express 6-pack chairlift which was installed for the 2020-2021 season. This new lift and terrain expansion represents the biggest change to Nordic Valley in 50 years! The resort continues to cut new trails and expand the terrain over on this side of the mountain so it's fun to come back and see what's new. Kids will enjoy the sinuous Lolly Lolly Lolly trail with its banked turns through the trees. Experts will find the most challenging terrain at Nordic Valley on this side of the mountain and can test their mettle on 2020 or TBS. Intermediates can sample the big vertical drop along the Valkyrie groomer.

Take note, the frontside or 80% of the mountain is open for night skiing, so this is one of the premier spots in Utah to capture the joy and unique experience of skiing or shredding under the lights.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

There are no public transit routes to Nordic Valley, however, Nordic Valley shuttle pickup can be arranged at the Eden Center by the Valley Market. Call Nordic Valley ahead of time to schedule a group pickup at (801)-745-3511.

BASE AREA & MAIN LODGE

Navigation around Nordic Valley is straightforward, which is why it’s such a great place to bring large groups, youngsters or the entire family. Young children can confidently navigate around the frontside of the mountain and it’s easy to meet up or ski together as a group. Nordic Valley is a great choice for fostering learning in very young children; its compact layout and easily navigable beginner slopes are perfectly suited for families who want to instill a love of sport in young kids. 

Nordic Valley has one main base lodge, the iconic Old Barn. Before it was a ski lodge, the Old Barn was indeed a hay barn that has recently undergone renovations to better serve its patrons. The upper level of the barn provides stunning views of the slopes and a nice place to enjoy Nordic Valley’s superb hot chocolate. There you may suit up for the day or stop in and warm up between runs, grab rental gear or order a snack.

NORDIC VALLEY SKI ACADEMY & SNOWBOARD SCHOOL

Nordic Valley is famous for the quality of their ski and snowboard school. Instructors will show tykes and adults alike how to excel on the mountain. The programs and packages with the school are some of the best deals in town and are a great value with a variety of formats. It is recommended to make reservations in advance by phone or online.

Kids After School Program
One of the most accessible programs, this 4-week lesson plan provides a 2-hour evening lesson one night each week with children grouped by age and ability level. This cost-effective program is for skiers of kindergarten age to 18 or snowboarders aged 8-17 to either learn or refine their techniques. The price of lessons include night skiing tickets and parent night skiing passes will be available for $20 on lesson nights. 

Private Lessons
By appointment only, these are some of the most affordable private lessons in town under $100. You can add time, or another person, for a reasonable fee. Lift tickets are not included and reservations are required.

Children’s Group Lessons
Book a 2-hour group lesson for skiers or boarders and learn on the mountain in a group setting. Lessons are organized by age and ability level. Note that skiers aged 7 or younger will need to enroll in a private lesson. Lift tickets and rental gear are not included.

Half-day group lessons are also available for children 8 and up which include four hours of on-snow instruction, a lunch break, lift tickets and rental gear. 

Family & Friends Private Lesson
Four family members or friends may book a private lesson together to foster instruction in a comfortable environment. These lessons must be booked at least 24 hours in advance. 

SKI SHOP & EQUIPMENT RENTALS

Nordic Valley operates a rental shop on the lower level of the Old Barn. With some of the most reasonable rental rates around Utah, Nordic Valley again proves that it is an awesome place to try skiing or snowboarding for the first time. Gear can be rented for the entire day or just for an evening session.

Nordic Valley’s knowledgeable staff will help you grab the right gear and kit you out. In addition to boots, skis, and boards, you can rent poles, helmets (which are included with rentals) and snowshoes for children and adults.

The shop also stocks a variety of winter essentials such as hats, goggles, gloves, sunscreen, etc.

LODGING AND DINING OPTIONS

Nordic Valley does not feature any on-slope accommodations. There are lodging options in Eden or at the Wolf Creek Resort. Check out the lodging options for Powder Mountain or Snowbasin for ideas. We love the local Compass Rose Lodge for a well-appointed and comfortable stay. Consider the Ogden area for reasonably priced rates and more city-style diversions and dining options.

For hungry bellies, head to the Nordic Valley Grill, which is open daily with reduced hours on Sunday. Basic ski hill fare includes menu items such as breakfast sandwiches, avocado bacon burgers, sandwiches and salads. Like any true mom and pop ski area, brown bag lunches are totally welcome at Nordic Valley and many families opt to bring their own food.

Try Nordic Valley's new app where you can order food or drinks from the Grill and pay ahead of time for fast and easy pick-up. There are picnic tables outside if you'd like some space or a few tables for dining indoors. 

CHILDCARE

Childcare is not offered at Nordic Valley, but consider dropping the kids off for a lesson. Young skiers and snowboarders as young can be enrolled in private lessons. Be sure to call in advance to complete a reservation. 

POINTS OF INTEREST

For a memorable visit, consider these unique points of interest when planning a trip to Nordic Valley.

Ogden River Scenic Byway – SR—39
If you’re coming or going to Nordic Valley you may chance upon the Ogden River Scenic Byway en route, State Road 39. The road winds up the narrow Ogden canyon beside a swift-moving river. There are several roadside restaurants if it’s time for a snack or meal.

Wasatch Parc Snow Tubing
Just down the lane from Nordic Valley lies the Wasatch Parc snow tubing hill. Nicely groomed lanes, friendly staff and family fun await at this little hidden gem in Ogden Valley. Check the website for current conditions and hours of operation and be sure to book your session online to guarantee availability.

iFly Utah
In Ogden is the iFly Utah indoor skydiving facility. No airplane is required and even if you have a fear of heights, you can safely experience the thrill of flying inside iFly’s vertical wind tunnel. Excitement and pure adrenaline are practically guaranteed and no experience is necessary. 


VISIT NORDIC VALLEY'S WEBSITE & LEARN MORE - CLICK HERE


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