It’s often called the best-kept secret in Utah, but it’s not like people don’t know about Snowbasin Resort. It hosted the premier event of the 2002 Winter Olympics—the downhill—was home to Winter Dew Tour competitions, and has graced the pages of countless ski magazines. But even with that pedigree, Snowbasin flies a little more under the radar than some of its Beehive State counterparts. That’s why it’s best to think of Snowbasin more like Utah’s most underutilized hidden gem. Deep snow, incredible terrain, great food, lively après. Snowbasin has it all including affordable season passes.
Here are five reasons to choose Snowbasin when deciding where to ski or snowboard this winter. We could easily have kept the list going but trust us on this one. Once you experience Snowbasin for yourself, you won’t need any additional convincing.
Easy Access
Getting to Snowbasin is a snap, even on powder days. Counting the mileage will show it’s a little further than some of the resorts in the Cottonwood Canyons, but the odometer doesn’t tell half the story. A quick drive up I-15 and you’re in the lot putting your boots on in only 45 minutes from Salt Lake City. No canyon closures for avalanche control. It’s hard to argue with more time skiing and less time driving. Once you've arrived at Snowbasin, you'll be ushered into a parking space with a shuttle service taking guests up to the lodge. Snowbasin is expanding its parking this season and boasts the most parking at any Utah resort.
Incredible Terrain and Snow
The most important ingredients for any day on the mountain are inspiring terrain and amazing conditions. Snowbasin has both. Whether you’re looking to shred gnarly steeps in Middle Bowl Cirque or to carve a leisurely cruise down three miles of glorious corduroy on Elk Ridge, the resort has something for every type of skier and snowboarder. There's even three terrain parks if you're after some airtime. With nearly 3,000 feet of vertical drop all topped off with 350-plus inches of The Greatest Snow on Earth™, you have a recipe for an epic day on the hill.
Great Lifts, Lodges and Food
All that terrain is only as good as your ability to access it. Thankfully, Snowbasin’s lift infrastructure is seriously impressive. There are two gondolas, two high-speed six-packs, two high-speed quads, two triple chairs, the 15-person Allen Peak Tram, and the new Middle Bowl Express 6-pack to whisk skiers and riders to the top of powder-covered steeps and immaculately groomed runs. When the legs need a break, the lodges aren’t a letdown. Whether at Snowbasin Earl's Lodge at the base or Snowbasin John Paul Lodge atop the mountain, you’ll find luxurious, comfortable lodges with fantastic dining and drink offerings on tap.
Olympic Heritage
Make turns while following in the tracks of Olympians. Snowbasin was home to the downhill, super-G and combined (downhill and slalom) events during the 2002 Winter Olympics. The downhill’s famed Grizzly Course starts from the atop the Allen Peak Tram, which was built specifically for the Olympics, before diving down steep slopes to the resort base. Keeping your skis on edge without scrubbing speed takes legitimate skills and nerve. American skiing legend Bode Miller won his first Olympic medal in the combined event at Snowbasin, where his legendary slalom run earned a place on the podium with silver while starting in 15th place after the downhill portion. We may not be able to ski like Olympians, but we can ski where they do.
Great Season Pass Options
Our fifth and final reason to pick Snowbasin this winter is the wealth of season pass options for every type of skier and snowboarder. Whether you're looking for maximum flexibility and access, unmatched value, options for travel, or a combination of it all, Snowbasin has you covered. Take a look at the pass options below to see which one is right for you. Just remember no matter which one you choose, act fast to take advantage of the season pass sale by purchasing at the lowest available price before Labor Day.
Premier Pass: For the skier or snowboarder prioritizing access and flexibility. Receive unlimited access in winter and summer, including great perks like five days at Sun Valley in Idaho, 50% off tickets at Vail Resorts destinations, resort discounts and more.
Value Passes: Ski and save at the same time. Save money by choosing a pass with select blackout dates during peak times.
Sun and Snow Pass: For the traveling shredder who loves the Snowbasin experience. Get three days each at Snowbasin and sister resort Sun Valley in Idaho, with 50% off additional lift tickets.
For more info on season passes, click here.
What do you love most about Snowbasin? Let us know!
This post is sponsored by Snowbasin
