It’s no secret that Utah is home to some of the best skiing in the world. But even in a world-renowned skiing state, there are a few hidden gems.
Powder Mountain ski resort is the home to the largest mountain in North America, the smallest crowds, and some of the best quiet skiing in the state. Here is everything you need to know for your next visit to skiing’s biggest hidden gem.
Skiing Powder Mountain
The Powder Mountain ski area is located in Eden, UT, within a one-hour drive from the Salt Lake International Airport. The resort has 8,464 acres of skiable terrain, which is the most of any resort in North America.
Powder Mountain lives up to its name with nearly 200” of average annual snowfall. The ski area management keeps its slopes relatively peaceful by limiting daily ticket sales far more than other local resorts. The small crowds and massive terrain make for a serene experience.
Nine lifts service 2,205 feet of vertical drops and 154 total runs—25% of which are beginner, 40% intermediate, and 35% advanced. Zones not accessible by lift are serviced by buses, snowcats, and guided backcountry tours.
Powder Mountain Ski Resort Parking
Winter driving in the canyon can be dangerous, so anyone planning on taking a car to the resort should follow safety regulations which may include snow chains, snow tires, and four-wheel drive.
Skiers can find free parking without reservations at the Timberline, Sundown, and Hidden Lake base areas. The UTA Ski Bus also offers 7-day service to Powder Mountain with pickups at the Ogden Transit Center, Courtyard by Marriott, Ben Lomond Hotel, Hilton Hotel, and Rainbow Gardens.
We recommend taking public transportation for several reasons, including the following:
- It reduces traffic congestion in the canyon.
- It’s much safer for drivers who don’t feel safe in the snow or don’t have a properly-equipped vehicle.
- It takes away the hassle and stress of trying to find parking spaces.
- It’s more financially responsible for season-pass holders, who get a free UTA Ski Bus pass.
- It’s economically and environmentally responsible to carpool or take public transportation.
Powder Mountain Ski Lessons
For beginners and powderhounds alike, nothing beats the individualized attention of private lessons at Powder Mountain. The resort’s snow sports school works with professional staff members who customize lessons for each patron’s goals and needs, whether that’s enjoying the powder or learning essential skills.
Guests can also utilize the Powder Mountain group ski lessons by reserving a spot in one of the following classes:
- First-Time Skiers. Only available for first-time skiers and can only be booked once per guest
- Powder Club. Well-qualified instructors teach skiing basics to children to help them have fun in a learning environment
- All-Mountain Adventure Team. Students participate in an 11-week program where they learn to ski all terrain
- Locals Program. Certified instructors lead a five-week lesson for skiers ages 18 and up
- Women’s Program. A women-led lesson for women ages 18 and up of any skill level
Powder Mountain Ski Rentals
Powder Mountain Ski Resort offers full equipment rentals and tuning services at multiple locations.
Rental equipment and accessories are available at the Timberline Sports Shop (open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.) and Sundown Lodge (open from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.). Prices range from $54 for a day ski package to $80 for demo/performance skis, though patrons can save $15 on all rentals by purchasing or reserving online.
A full-service ski tune-shop located behind the Timberline Lodge is complete with base stone grinding, hot wax, tune-ups, and overnight repairs. All services finish by 9 a.m. the day after drop-off unless otherwise indicated.
Powder Mountain Resort Lodging
A visit to a ski resort is incomplete without staying at premium lodging. Staying at a lodge is a luxurious and unique experience with mountain views, amenities, and vibes unlike any other.
Powder Mountain resort lodging is divided into villages and townhomes with options for everyone. We can’t cover every cabin in a single article, so here are a few of our favorites.
Horizon Cabins
Award-winning architect Brian Mackay-Lions designed Horizon Cabins. It overlooks the Ogden Valley and has incredible sunsets behind the Wasatch Range. The village features three different cabin styles:
- Horizon 7845 features a beautiful 180-degree view of the Wasatch Mountains and Salt Lake Valley, vaulted ceilings, a large walkout patio, and plenty of natural light. This cabin is the perfect ski-out location for beginners and experts alike.
- Horizon 7851 is a three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bath cabin with all the space you need to make lifelong memories with family and friends.
- Horizon 7770 is a modern lodge with bright-colored furnishings, gorgeous views, and easy access to fresh powder.
Cascade Townhomes
The Cascade Townhomes are large 4-to-6-bedroom units with extra amenities such as garages, theater rooms, game rooms, and private hot tubs. Each property has a homey, cabin-like feel with wood flooring, full furnishings, and granite countertops.
Spring Park
Spring Park 8492 is a one-of-a-kind chalet that embraces indoor/outdoor living in the mountains. The luxury home has designer furniture, a custom rooftop hot tub, and stunning views from each room. The ground floor features a one-car garage with ski racks, and the second floor provides an open gathering space with designer furniture.
Restaurants Near Powder Mountain Utah
Whether you need a quick bite in-between runs or a nice relaxing dinner after a long day on the slopes, the resort has an assortment of dining options. Here are a few must-visits.
- Timberline Cafeteria. The Timberline Cafeteria is open for breakfast and lunch. It’s a great casual dining option with a menu ranging from burgers to soups and chilis.
- Pizza and Pints at Bower Lodge. Pizza and Pints now features an a-la-carte menu, table service, and delicious high-quality pizzas for any age.
- The Powder Keg. The keg is perfect for anyone looking to relax and grab a drink. It also serves a variety of ramen, rice bowls, wings, and salads.
Tackle Your Next Skiing Experience with Wildhorn
At Wildhorn, we strive to do good and invest in organizations that improve our natural world. We’re located in the beautiful Salt Lake Valley and we optimize our gear around performance and value to help you get the most out of your outdoor adventures. Skiing connects us to the environment, and your equipment should only enhance the experience.
Through every step of our production and service process, we aim to amaze. Take your next visit to Powder Mountain Ski Resort to another level with Wildhorn!
