Top Ski Resorts In Utah

Winter is almost here and many skiers are already packing up their gear and getting ready to hit the slopes the moment the first snowflake hits the ground. The state of Utah is home to many thrilling ski resorts. The variety of resorts, including those designed for beginners and those offering a challenge for the most skilled skier, makes it possible for skiers of all skill levels to find a place to ski while visiting Utah.Let's take a quick look at some of the must-ski mountains and resorts in Utah:

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Alta Ski Area
Highway 210
Little Cottonwood Canyon
Alta, UT 84092
(801) 359-1078
www.alta.com

Since the late 1830s, Generations of skiers have made their way to the Alta area, where they have shared their love for skiing at this breathtaking mountain area with their friends and family. Often referred to as a "skier's mountain," Alta is known for its diverse terrain, beautiful scenery and a high quality of snow. The best part about Alta Ski Area is that it has been dedicated solely to skiers, meaning no other snow-sliding equipment is allowed, including snowboards and snowmobiles. Because of this, many skiers feel Alta offers the purest form of skiing available in the country.

Those staying in the Alta Ski Area will have a variety of options when selecting their accommodations. Accommodations available in the area include base lodges, condos and vacation homes/chalets. Lodging and ski packages are available by visiting their official website.

Related: The 5 Best Skiing and Snowboarding Getaways for N.Y., N.J., Conn. Families

Solitude Mountain Resort
12000 Big Cottonwood Canyon Road
Solitude, UT 84121
(801) 534-1400
www.skisolitude.com

Those looking for a quiet place to ski will find it at the Solitude Mountain Resort. Here, skiers can enjoy a peaceful getaway that is less crowded than many of the ski resorts in Utah. During the fall, colors quickly change the landscape into waves of gold, red and speckles of orange. But the winter season is right behind it, as skiers start making their way to the area in mid to late-November. The quick changing seasons make it possible to enjoy fall and winter in just a short time span.

Skiers will find an assortment of lodging options while visiting Solitude, including quaint inns, rustic lodges, town homes and private luxury homes. The wide assortment of accommodations in the area makes it possible for skiers with budgets of all sizes to plan a getaway.

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Cliff Lodge At Snowbird
9320 Cliff Lodge
Snowbird, UT 84092
(801) 933-2222
www.snowbird.com

Spend your winter getaway at one of the most iconic ski lodges in North America. The Cliff Lodge at Snowbird offers rooms with amazing views and easy access to the ski lifts. Plus, this lodge is the perfect reminder of what a rugged mountain-side lodge should look like. Everything from the log columns to the unique décor is perfect for those wanting an authentic mountain getaway

Though Snowbird has no frills to offer skiers, it's still one of the best ski mountains in the world. The insane terrain offers advanced skiers a chance to test their skills, while newcomers can test the waters on fresh powder. Many say that Snowbird offers visitors a chance to experience skiing the way it was meant to be.

Powder Mountain
6565 E. Powder Mountain Road, Box 1119
Eden, UT 84130
(801) 745-3772
www.powdermountain.com

With more than 7,000 acres of terrain usually covered with more than 500 inches of fresh snow, Powder Mountain has become a wonderland that many skiers flock to once winter arrives. The terrain is one that offers skiers variety, making it possible to have a different experience each day of your getaway. There is very little chance of getting bored while visiting Powder Mountain.

Accommodation options at Powder Mountain include everything from private vacation homes to simple one-room cabins. No matter what type of room you will be staying in, you will be treated to high-quality customer service and access to the concierge. Skiers will be happy with their lodging options, but may not find themselves in the room for very long because the mountains will be calling for them.

Related: Colorado's Top Ski Resorts

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Snow Basin
3925 Snow Basin Road
Huntsville, UT 84317
(801) 620-1000
www.snowbasin.com

One of the best things about Snow Basin is that there is so much more to do during a getaway than just ski. Guests will enjoy 26 miles of biking and hiking trails, a kids' playground, planned activities, live entertainment, disc golf and adventure tours. With so much to do off the mountain, skiers will have plenty of options for things to when taking a break. However, there is also plenty to do on the mountainside, including tubing and Nordic trails.

Accommodations in the area include lodges, private cabins, rental homes and townhouses. Many guests visiting Snow Basin enjoy staying at Earl's Lodge and Needles Lodge. Both of these locations put skiers close to all of the action, both on and off the mountain.

With the winter season just around the corner, skiers can start planning their upcoming getaways. There are so many different and unique ski resorts located throughout Utah, thus making it possible to plan the ski vacation of a lifetime.

Heather Landon (Heather Leigh Carroll) is a freelance writer with more than 20 years of experience. She has combined two of her passions - writing and travel - to share her experiences with others. You can read more of her articles at Examiner.com.