A Gorgeous Utah Mountain Is The Ultimate Ski Spot Featuring Olympic-Level Runs

Looking to ski 325 inches of Utah's "Greatest Snow on Earth" with fewer crowds and easy access from your hotel, and even the airport? Out of Salt Lake City's incredible ski resorts, head to Snowbasin, the top ski resort in America according to SKI Magazine, Outdoor Magazine, and USA Today. During the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Olympics, Snowbasin hosted the men's and women's downhill, super-G, and combined runs, and will be playing host again when Utah gets the games back in 2034. In addition to the two most famous Olympic runs, Snowbasin has plenty of long, laid-back groomers, wide bowls, terrain parks, and steep backcountry chutes with stunning views of the Wasatch Mountains all around. And if you've got little ones that are still on a steady diet of "pizza" and "french fries" on the hill or you haven't hit the slopes for a while, the resort has an award-winning ski school and learn-to-ride program with private and group lessons available.

Located just 45 minutes north of Salt Lake City, Snowbasin is one of the world's longest-running ski resorts. Since its humble beginnings as a single rope tow and several ownership changes in the 1970s, the resort has transformed into one of the state's premier winter destinations with 13 lifts (including gondolas) providing access to 3,000 acres of skiable terrain with a nearly 3,000-foot vertical drop. Four majestic lodges across the resort host an incredible selection of world cuisines from authentic Bavarian to cheesesteaks to curries and prime rib that will keep you fueled all day. After that last run, toast the end of a glorious day with a cocktail or beer at The Cinnabar in Earl's Lodge as you recount flying down Grizzly or Wildflower like an Olympic champion.

The soft, powdery snow that falls in the nearby Wasatch Mountains is the stuff of magic, attracting millions of tourists to the state as well as millions of dollars in investment, with more on the way. During peak season, on weekends, and powder days, the roads to Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons and can be snarled with traffic, though Snowbasin usually has less congestion. If you are driving, check the Utah Department of Transportation traffic information online that shows current road conditions before setting off — and consider these driving safety tips when traveling in the snow if you are unfamiliar with driving in winter conditions. Note that you can also take public transportation.

If you decide to visit Snowbasin, note that the resort does not have lodging within the resort itself. While you can stay in Salt Lake City, there are plenty of options in nearby Ogden, including historic downtown. Ogden's 25th Street is a hidden gem of local bars, galleries, restaurants, and nightlife perfect for an après-ski or a rest day, set amongst a perfect backdrop of the snow-covered Wasatch Mountains. Families and kids with leftover energy will love the Salomon Center, complete with indoor surfing, rock climbing, and skydiving. There are frequent buses from Odgen to Snowbasin. If you want to stay in Salt Lake City, there's a FrontRunner train connecting Salt Lake City to Layton, and then frequent buses from Layton to Snowbasin. Taking public transit helps you avoid renting a four-wheel drive car or having to drive in the snow.

Packing for a family ski trip can be challenging, but there are simple tips and tricks to pack like a pro. If you are hauling skis, boots, and cold-weather gear across the country, many major airlines today (Delta, United, Southwest, and American) allow sports equipment to be considered as part of a passenger's checked luggage allowance — as long as the bag is within the airline's appropriate size and weight limits. Make sure you check your airline's website for more detailed information on bringing ski equipment.

If hauling gear from airport to airport sounds like too much work, northern Utah has plenty of options to rent or purchase ski and snowboarding equipment locally. Downtown Salt Lake City and Ogden both have numerous outdoor sporting goods and local specialty ski shops offering everything from ski and snowboard equipment to winter clothing and more. For maximum convenience, Snowbasin also has well-stocked rental and pro shops, offering high-quality equipment for skiers and riders of all levels. If you plan to rent, make a reservation beforehand to avoid disappointment.

And as you pack for your trip, don't forget your wallet. Single-day lift tickets on the weekends and holidays start at $219 per day for teens and adults, though you can save $20 per person by purchasing them one week in advance from Snowbasin's website. If you've picked up a full Ikon pass, you'll be able to experience seven glorious days of bluebird mornings and fresh powder at Snowbasin as well as shred some of the most popular resorts in America. If time allows while you are in the area, don't miss visiting some of the most beautiful national parks in the country and add another level to your winter adventure.