Skiing in Utah: The Frequently Asked Questions

At Destination Utah we field all sorts of questions about snowboarding and skiing in Utah. That’s our job, and we love to natter about our favourite US state.

But there are queries that crop up more frequently than others. Have you ever mused over the following Utah-related conundrums?

Q: So is everyone in Utah Mormon?
A: Yes, yes they are. And you’ll be made to convert when you land at Salt Lake City Airport. We kid, we kid…

In actual fact, members of the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter Day Saints make up about 60% of Utah’s overall population.

Q: I love a drink. Can I indulge in my favourite tipple in Utah?
A: You sure can. Utah’s liquor laws changed a few years back. Today, they’re on par with laws in the rest of the US of A.

Q: Why does Utah claim to have the ‘Greatest Snow on Earth’?
A: The seemingly bold claim that Utah’s home to the ‘Greatest Snow on Earth’ is actually backed by science. True story.

Utah averages about 500 inches of snowfall annually, 40 snowstorms, and 18 monster dumps. With approximately 8.5% snow density, it’s just dry enough to make for perfect POW.

Q: I’m worried the Utah terrain’s too extreme for beginners to intermediates…
A: Not really a question, but we’re going to let it slide. While skiing in Utah does offer loads of challenging terrain for advanced folk, all levels are well catered to. Each of Utah’s 14 resorts has a full range of runs.

Q: Which are the best ski resorts for beginners?
A: If it’s the first time you’ve ever donned ski boots you’re in for a treat. To get the most out of skiing in Utah, Destination Utah recommends you focus on Deer Valley (skiers only), Park City Mountain and Solitude Resort.

Q: I’m gay. Does Utah offer any events for me?
A: It sure does, the Annual Utah Gay Ski Week in Park City. So if you enjoy mixing up your ski holiday with dance parties, bar events, a hot guys and girls a-go-go, you’re in for a treat. Speak to a member of Destination Utah about arranging party passes and VIP party passes.

Q: I love to bust some shapes on the dance floor! Where’s the best nightlife in Utah?
A: Our money’s on Park City. It’s home to two world-class ski resorts, and over 100 restaurants and every sort of bar imaginable including jazz bars, karaoke, and nightclubs.

Q: Which Utah ski resorts are family friendly?
A: At the risk of sounding like a broken record, it’s Park City once again. The ski schools are excellent, there’s loads of fun stuff to do on the snow, and the town’s just eight minutes away from the resort. Plus, the transfer from Salt Lake City Airport takes only 35 minutes.

Q: Is it possible to ski Utah with family in tow without breaking the bank?
A: Absolutely. Enlist Destination Utah’s skills and we’ll make you savings on shuttle rides, family-friendly accommodation, and lift passes. Plus, ask a member of the team about the best places for a family to eat inexpensively.

Q: I’ve heard Utah offers some of the best heli-skiing in the world. Is that true?
A: You heard right. Utah is home to the world-famous Wasatch Powderbird Guides, who run heli-skiing adventures across Utah back country.

From heliports in Snowbird Resort and Canyons Resort they conduct guided tours that cover, on average, 11,000 and 15,000 vertical feet. And thanks to the Powderbird’s