Stoke is high in Utah. Snow is on the mountains and locals are already skiing and riding preseason powder. We are ready to get the official season underway.
If you’ve visited Utah ski resorts before, this season is even more exciting because several have made improvements over summer. Snowbird replaced their Gad 2 ski lift, plus both Brian Head and Brighton are building new terrain parks.
As you plan your Utah ski vacation, consider these new additions and improvements:
Alta
Alta’s Rustler Lodge underwent a makeover including new guest rooms featuring gas fireplaces, new indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis, a new sauna, three new spa treatment rooms and a manicure-pedicure room. More info: RustlerLodge.com
Brian Head
Serious about providing upgrades for their visitors, Brian Head has invested 3.5 million in improvements to the resort. Recent improvements include, two completely renovated base lodges, three new magic carpet surface lifts, and the only BagJump in Utah, which opened in January.
Brian Head Bag, Photo by Brian Head
Also new is the Stephen Wade Auto Center Training Grounds, including three new terrain parks with over 20 new features. More info: BrianHead.com
Brian Head’s Stephen Wade Auto Center Training Grounds
Brighton
Okay, I have to admit, I’m super stoked about this new improvement at Brighton! A girls-only terrain park is being added with design assistance from professional free skier Greta Elliassen, Red Bull, and Burton. I love the idea of gals having their own dedicated space to play.
As part of the Big Cottonwood Pass program, Brighton has added a RFID access ticket system allowing hands-free access through gates to ski lifts. The pass system also simplifies entry for Big Cottonwood Pass holders transitioning between Brighton and Solitude. More Info: BrightonResort.com
Brighton Resort, Photo by George Osmun
Deer Valley
Beginning level skiers have a new run at Deer Valley located on Little Baldy Peak. The run, named Gnat’s Eye, has already been added to their winter trail map. The resort is also upgrading their air/water snowmaking guns. More snow, more fun! More info: DeerValley.com
Snowbasin
Snowbasin increased its snowmaking capacity to 615 acres, meaning an earlier opening for more terrain. They are also collaborating with Burton Snowboards to build a dinosaur Riglet Park and Learn to Snowboard program for children ages 3-6. As if that’s not enough, a Rossignol Experience Program is being added to the rental program offering all new equipment. More info: Snowbasin.com
Snowbird
The 1970s era original Gad 2 at Snowbird has been replaced with a high-speed detachable quad chairlift, cutting ride time in half. As if that wasn’t cool enough, Snowbird is also expanding their Cat Skiing for Nature operations to open up even more terrain. Cat Skiing for Nature launched last season with access to the backside of Mineral Basin. More info: Snowbird.com
The Gad at Snowbird, Photo by Snowbird/Matt Crawley
Solitude
All levels of skiers and riders can take advantage of the newly widened the SolBright Trail, which connects Solitude and Brighton Resorts. Making this even cooler is the new Big Cottonwood Season Pass that includes both resorts. RFID lift-passes at both resorts make the transition from one to the other seamless for pass holders. More info: SkiSolitude.com
This is just a summary of on hill improvements at Utah’s resorts. Now pass programs, lodging deals and dining have also been introduced this season, so make sure to visit each hill’s website for the latest. I don’t know about you, but I’m ready to play in some Utah powder!
What resort updates and additions are you most excited about this season, both in Utah and elsewhere? Let us know in the comments below!
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Thanks for the info about Brighton – going there this weekend and staying at the best Brighton lodging around. Can’t wait to check out the girls only terrain!