Whether it’s your first time to Salt Lake City or your tenth, there’s always something exciting to look forward to. This capital city is an international destination for its beautiful mountain views, renowned restaurants, arts & entertainment, and ​“the greatest snow on Earth.”

Image Credit: Visit Salt Lake

This guide has the local picks and tips for your next trip! In this blog we’ll cover:

• Where to Ski in Salt Lake City – so many choices!
• Après Ski – yes, Salt Lake City has nightlife and even bars!
• Hitting the town – Sports, history, and museums await!

Where to ski in Salt Lake City

First things first. If you’re going to Salt Lake City, you have to check out some of these mountains:

1. Alta: Just 30 miles from Salt Lake, Alta is one of the easiest mountains to get to from the valley. It’s known for its powder skiing and high quantity of snowfall each year. Alta has a skiable area of 2,614 acres and a vertical drop of 2,538 ft. Generations of skiers have enjoyed the diverse terrains on this ski-only mountain.
2. Snowbird: With 2,500 acres of skiable terrain, and a vertical drop of 3,240 feet, the Bird is a local favorite. It’s right in the heart of the Wasatch-Cache National Forest and is known for having the longest ski season around. They also have tons of summer activities like lift-served mountain biking and ropes courses.
3. Brighton: This local mountain is great for beginners and intermediate skiers. They’re known for their ski and snowboarding schools with both private and group lessons. The mountain averages over 500 inches of snow each season on its 66 trails. Brighton also has some of the best backcountry access in Utah.
4. Solitude: This mountain mixes a hometown feel with some of the steepest skiing in the range. Locals consider Solitude a hidden gem that gets passed up too often! This mountain is more for experts. It has 1,200 acres of skiable terrain, with 50% of that being in the advanced category.
5. Park City Mountain: This is the biggest mountain in Utah and the largest ski resort in the United States. With 7,300 acres of skiable terrain and 17 peaks, there are trails for everyone. It’s about a 45-minute drive away from Salt Lake City airport making it an easy day trip for those staying in the valley.
6. Deer Valley: Deer Valley is just south of Park City. Its 2,000 acres of terrain are ranked ​“Best of the West ” for their grooming. It’s the official training site for U.S. Freestyle skiers and actually doesn’t allow snowboarding. Deer Valley is known for its best in class service, knowledgeable employees, and exceptional food
7. Sundance: This mountain is a little further than the others, about an hour from Salt Lake City, but it’s worth it for the relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views. It’s the least crowded resort in the state, with 5,000 acres of protected wilderness at the base of the mountain. Make the most of the outdoor activities all year round, from night skiing to horseback riding, fly-fishing, and Utah’s longest zipline!

Take gear off your mind by reserving through Ski Butlers. We deliver and pick-up your gear, from skis to boots, goggles, and helmets, right in your hotel room.

Après Activities

The entertainment doesn’t stop when the lifts do – half the fun of spending a day on the slopes is what comes after. Après in The Cottonwoods (Alta, Snowbird, Brighton, and Solitude) is an essential part of the ski experience. While Utah’s drinking laws might be quirky, you can certainly enjoy some drinks and live music at one of these spots:

1. The Goldminer’s Daughter Saloon: Located right at the foot of Alta, this is the perfect spot for a bite and a beer. With three fireplaces, couches, and live entertainment, this is the place to be at the end of the day. 
   • Local tip: Grab an ​“Alta Bomb” – a double shot of espresso dropped into a PBR.
2. Hog Wallow Pub: Founded 70+ years ago by a WWII vet, this is the oldest and most notorious bar in the area. Stop by for live music and award-winning vibes. 
   • Local tip: Try the macho nachos or a Bavarian pretzel!
3. The Peruvian Bar: The P Dog is located between Alta and Snowbird at the Alta Peruvian Lodge. Unlimited free popcorn and a shot-ski – need we say more? 
   • Local tip: Go on a Sunday night! They remove the tables for live music and dancing.

The local brewery scene in Salt Lake City is getting big. Check out some of the major ones:

1. Fisher Brewing Company – bring your pup!
2. T.F. Brewing – check out the outdoor patio and firepits.
3. Wasatch Brewery – with brewpubs in both SLC and Park City.
4. Level Crossing Brewing Company –try their award-winning ​“Suss It Out” beer.
5. KiiTOS Brewing – learn about their sustainable brewing system.

Hitting the Town 

Salt Lake City is an international hub for all types of travelers. Here are some of the favorites of locals and tourists alike:

1. The Base and Meridian: Stand at the literal center of the city! The grid system of the city was built out from this spot.
2. Hogle Zoo: Check out the 800+ animals at the Hogle Zoo. With behind-the-scenes tours and adult paint nights, the zoo is a great choice for everyone in the family.
3. The Natural History Museum of Utah: From dinosaurs to minerals, learn about the latest science and discoveries.
4. Professional sports games: Check the schedule for a Utah Jazz basketball game or a Utah Grizzlies semi-pro hockey game.

Ski the world with us

Since 2004, we have been catering to people who love fresh powder as much as we do. Learn more about Ski Butlers and what our customers think of our service. Be sure to check out our Trustpilot reviews too.

Salt Lake City checked off your list? Let Ski Butlers take care of you at one of our other locations around the world. See you on the slopes.