SOLITUDE MOUNTAIN RESORT
The centerpiece of Solitude Mountain Resort is its adorable and quaint village that looks like a scene out of a Hallmark movie. The Inn at Solitude is modeled after a Bavarian lodge. You’ll find restaurants, shops and lodging here. When it’s time to hit the slopes, skiers enjoy 82 runs and noteworthy “off-piste” terrain or off-groomed trails. These trails are predominately for intermediate and advanced skiers. Pro-tip: be sure to pick up a tube of lip balm here – it’s the most moisturizing SPF-infused lip balm we’ve ever tried.
Solitude also offers one of the most unique dining experiences we’ve ever had: Yurt Dining. After donning snowshoes, you take a quarter-mile snowy trek to a Mongolian yurt nestled in the woods. Once inside, we were treated to one of the best meals we’ve ever had with each course more impressive than the last one – all served outside under a yurt and paired with wine. The hike back after dark, during a clear sky and fresh powder that hadn’t been skied on yet just made the entire thing even more magical. Reservations are required.
For more information, visit solitudemountain.com.
Photos courtesy of Solitude Mountain Resort.
ALTA
Alta is a resort steeped in history. Alta opened its first ski lift in 1938-1939 – making it one of the oldest ski areas in the country. Alta is the second ski area in North America and the first in Utah to install a ski lift. Many believe Alta is home to a wooden ski lift (it’s not). Alta is just one of three ski areas in the U.S. that doesn’t allow snowboarding. Alta offers 116 runs on more than 2,200 acres. Besides the renowned skiing, look forward to colorful dining options.
RUSTLER LODGE DINING ROOM
In keeping with this resort’s old European feel, Rustler Lodge offers fine dining in a space complete with soaring ceilings, wood walls and expansive windows showcasing beautiful views all around. We loved our mid-afternoon latte served in a tall glass. Expect hearty lunch bites like five spice seared ahi sandwiched in between a toasted ciabatta bun and grilled cheese and tomato.
SHALLOW SHAFT RESTAURANT
Little Cottonwood Canyon’s only independent, casual fine dining restaurant calls Alta home. The Shallow Shaft Restaurant features stellar cuisine like the elk ribeye served with roasted new potatoes and chimichurri and a notable wine list, but we remember most is the atmosphere: warm, inviting and one-of-a-kind views of the gorgeous ski area surrounding us.
For more information, visit alta.com.
Photos: (top) courtesy of Alta Ski Area/Photo John; (bottom) courtesy of Alta Ski Area/John Shafer.
SNOWBIRD
Snowbird boasts Utah’s longest ski season, opening in November and closing sometime in May. And winter activities abound here. Explore Snowbird’s 2,500 acres on skis, snowboards, snowshoes or a snowmobile. Snowbird also sells joint passes with Alta so skiers can access both resorts’ terrain.
Located at the modern and luxurious The Cliff Lodge, The Cliff Spa is a true gem. After two days of ski lessons, we needed a massage to work out the kinks. We enjoyed a relaxing and refreshing treatment a room showcasing views of the slopes. But the real gem of The Cliff Spa? Its rooftop pool. We can’t think of a better way to spend an afternoon than relaxing in the heated pool while the snow falls for an all-around fantastic winter experience.
For more information, visit snowbird.com.
Aerial Tram photo by Chris Segal; Powder Skiing photo by Jay Dash Photography.
