Research from the University of Utah reveals that this Western U.S. state produces the greatest snow on earth for skiing and riding, thanks to an ideal combination of snow water content and climate conditions. Park City, Utah is one of the premiere destinations in the States to partake in winter activities and during the annual Sundance Film Festival (January to February), the slopes empty out as attention shifts indoors and onto the big screen.
We can’t think of a better opportunity to jump on a plane and experience the greatest snow on earth – discover our tips and recommendations for visiting Ski City.
Where to stay
For a warm, budget friendly and local experience book a stay at Torchlight Inn Bed and Breakfast, which is situated a five minute walk from Park City’s Historic Main Street. Owners Chris and Russ are super hosts, who have turned the building’s former shell to a charming B&B with a beautiful view of the city and its slopes. For ski-in and ski-out access and accommodations, consider staying at the über luxurious St. Regis Deer Valley or at one of Deer Valley Ski Resort’s multiple lodgings.
Where to ski
Drive approximately 20 minutes south from Park City to cross country ski at Soldier Hollow Nordic Center, the venue of the Salt Lake 2002 Olympic Winter Games. Soldier Hollow offers 30 km of groomed tracks for all skill types, from beginner to Olympic level; the purchase of an all-day cross country ski pass and rentals is quite reasonable here. Downhill skiers have a plethora of slopes to choose from in and around Park City. Deer Valley Resort is a long time city fixture and is a premiere ski destination, consistently voted #1 in guest services among ski resorts in North America (SKI magazine). The resort spans the length of six mountains with more than 2,000 acres and 103 trails.Snowboarders can suit up at Park Mountain Resort to shred its 7,300 acres and 300+ trails.
Where to eat
Night time skiing is not offered at Park City ski resorts, therefore when the slopes go dark it’s time to après ski! The food scene in this former mining town offers a surprising array of cuisines from American fusion to Japanese. During the Sundance Film Festival, restaurants get very busy and you’re strongly encouraged to make reservations in advance. For a fine dining experience book a table at Handle and order its addictive General Tso cauliflower. During your midday ski break, head to the popular High West Distillery & Saloon and sample the High West Flight, a sampler of four of the brand’s namesake whiskeys. To satisfy your sushi cravings step into Yuki Yama Sushi, a high energy and happening spot – reservations here are an absolute must. Lastly, wrap up your trip and jump into a snow cat to nosh at The Viking Yurt. Established in 1999 this Nordic themed restaurant sits 1,800 ft up a mountain and sells out all winter long. On the menu is a six course, prix-fix gourmet dinner set inside a warm and cozy yurt which offers stunning views of Park City at night.
Where to shop
Historic Main Street is where you’ll find all the action and film festival buzz. The shops here are charming and unique – no big box stores here! Independent and local establishments line the street and are one of the many features which make Park City delightful and special. We recommend stopping into a few local gems such as Burns Cowboy Shop which makes authentic cowboy boots, buckles and customs hats. Southwest Indian Traders is a two storey, cavernous shop lined from floor to ceiling with Western themed apparel and souvenirs. If you’re shopping inside this store during Sundance, you’re sure to spot a few celebrities here such as David Arquette trying on a leather cowboy vest.
