How to Ski Deer Valley Resort, UT Like a Local

[Sponsored by Deer Valley Resort]

Locals at Deer Valley Ski Resort have carved themselves a glorious little niche into Utah’s Wasatch Range. Located in Park City, Deer Valley is one of 11 resorts in the Wasatch but consistently differentiates itself as one of the top resorts in North America due to its guest service, dining options, ski terrain, and luxury accommodations. Deer Valley features 3,000 feet (910m) of vertical and averages 300 inches (>7.5m) of annual snowfall; 21 lifts seamlessly access more than 2,000 acres (>800ha) of terrain.

Deer Valley® is known for all-around luxury. Start your day by taking advantage of curbside ski valet or, if you are traveling by plane, go one step further by having your equipment shipped directly to the lodge. Buy your lift passes ahead of time online to guarantee access! Deer Valley limits the number of lift tickets sold each day so that once you are there, you don’t have to be bothered with long lines or crowded slopes.  

For advanced skiers hoping to get the goods right away, head up the Sterling Express chairlift from the Silver Lake Lodge. Spend your morning lapping the Sultan Express chairlift and the Mayflower chairlift. Enjoy untracked powder in Mayflower Bowl’s south-facing slopes in the morning while the snow is at its coldest. Deer Valley is also well known for its groomers. Hit up Stein’s Way first thing for pristine, morning corduroy.

Grab lunch at Royal Street Café. Located in the Silver Lake Lodge, Royal Street Café offers creative American and international casual cuisine in a contemporary lodge setting. After lunch, head over to the Empire Express chairlift to ski Empire Bowl. The Daly Chutes offer up some of Deer Valley’s steepest terrain. Often consisting of mandatory airtime on the entrance into these >40-degree slopes, many folks give this terrain a pass. Though these north-facing slopes are often overlooked, they are technical, fun and often hold untracked snow longer than other parts of the mountain.

Deer Valley goes above and beyond to create an extravagant guest experience. It is one of only three remaining resorts in the United States that do not allow snowboarders, creating a unique experience for skiers. Many folks tend to stick to the high-caliber groomed runs, leaving the trees full of untouched powder. Ontario Bowl is another great place to find soft snow, fun terrain, and widely spaced trees. Though much of the resort caters to families, there is plenty of side hits off the main runs that provide a natural terrain park for more advanced riders to play on.

If you are looking to experience Utah’s deep, blower powder but want to beat the crowds and take advantage of luxury and wide open spaces, then check out Deer Valley Resort.