Best Time To Ski Utah
There’s no such thing as the perfect one-size-fits-all Utah ski vacation. Some folks are looking for the best deals, others want snow, snow and more snow, and then there are the lone wolves who prefer the mountains all to themselves.
So when are the best times to ski Utah?
There’s No Business Like Snow Business
Utah’s ski season typically runs from mid-November through to April. And, unlike other regions, the snow is generally bountiful and consistent throughout – like, 500 inches bountiful. That said, January through March offers the best skiing in the Park City area and January through April for the Cottonwood Resorts- Snowbird, Alta, Solitude and Brighton.
If you want to try and nail down the day of the season, and we’re not making any guarantees here, January 13 is known as the golden winter day on Utah’s Wasatch Front. According to Visit Utah, historical data shows this day has the highest likelihood of receiving snowfall over any other winter day.
If you are craving deep powder, historically February and March are the best time to ski Utah, with good snowfalls and a well-developed base. If at all possible avoid Presidents weekend (mid-February) as it’s a time when the whole of the US embark on a ski vacation, plus, ski deals and promotions are usually not offered during this time. April isn’t without the big snow storms either – you’re just entering late snow conditions. Snowbird and Alta would be the pick of the resorts during this time as they tend to get more snowfall and their season runs later than the Park City resorts.
Mid-November through December is early-season so the resorts may not be 100% operational, this is all dependant on mother nature of course. That said, the temps are usually cold and the resorts have snow making facilities and do a great job of grooming. It is also quiet on the slopes and good deals on lodging and rates are offered pre-Christmas, so it might actually be your ideal time to ski Utah. You might also snag an early season storm, and, because there is no-one on the mountain to contend with you will be guaranteed fresh tracks all day!
The temps in January are usually low, making for ideal groomed conditions and the super light, dry powder that Utah is renowned for. Also, in a typical season the resorts are 100% operational by this time. Whilst January isn’t historically the snowiest month it still gets its fair share of winter storms and travelling after the first week will see the Christmas crowds back at work/ school so lodging rates and ski deals are at their best. If you’re looking to ski Park City, the famous Sundance film festival takes place towards the tail end of the month. The town is bustling during this time, there is atmosphere aplenty and the slopes are pretty quiet as everyone is enjoying the festivities on Main Street. If you like to mix up your skiing with socialising this is a great time to visit Utah.
Spring skiing in March is the perfect time for those wanting to enjoy the warmer temps, ski with the sun on their backs and still experience some bountiful snowfalls. The resorts really celebrate the ski season in March, there is a great vibe about the base areas with music, resort events and plenty of outdoor après ski.
Utah Ski Deal or No Deal
If you book early, the best times to pick up bargain Utah ski deals are early season, late season, and non-holiday periods.
Thinking about skiing Christmas? For the cheapest rates, hold off until the new year. You’ll find ski promotions are at their best for this period, including free nights, plus discounted lodging and lift tickets.
Early spring is also a great time to make savings on Utah’s ski slopes. Despite the excellent snow conditions, lots of skiers have packed away their winter kit in favour of golfing, hiking and biking.
However you plan your Utah ski adventure, there’s more than enough amazing skiing to go around.
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