4 Reasons To Ski Snowbasin
Powderhounds visit Utah every year from all over the world chasing perfect conditions. After a slow start to the season, Snowbasin, a resort just 45 minutes from the Salt Lake City International Airport, has received over nine feet of snow in the past 30 days. Just when we could all use a socially distanced break from the monotony of working from home this winter, a trip to Snowbasin is quite appealing. Here are four reasons to ski at Snowbasin this winter.
J.Q. LOUISE
The Terrain
Quite predictably, the first reason to ski at Snowbasin is its terrain. Offering 3,000 vertical feet and 3,000 acres of terrain, Snowbasin is by all accounts a world-class ski area. They even hosted several events during the 2002 Winter Olympics. There is something for everyone at the mountain, whether it is a powder day or bluebird.
A freshly groomed Strawberry Fields trail at Snowbasin resort
And unlike other large resorts, the lift system at Snowbasin offers some of the best bottom-to-top direct access so you can spend more time skiing and less time on the chairlift. The terrain is separated into three areas by the major lifts and gondolas: Needles, Strawberry and John Paul. Each offers a unique set of trails, but all offering direct access from the base to the top. So, whether you are ready to check out some powder-filled bowls or fast groomers, Snowbasin will have you on the mountain enjoying yourself all day.
Easy Access
The second reason to visit Snowbasin this winter is that it is incredibly easy to access. With an international airport just 45 minutes away, guests are only a short highway ride from the mountain once they land at the Salt Lake City International Airport. And once you get to the mountain, you’ll notice that Snowbasin has an extremely well-organized parking lot system at the base. Therefore, if you are someone who enjoys driving to the mountain rather than taking local shuttles, this is a nice perk.
Unique Accommodation Options
The lobby at the Compass Rose Lodge in Huntsville, UT
While there are no on-mountain accommodations, there are a number of unique lodging options nearby. Just 10 minutes down the road in the small town of Huntsville, a new boutique hotel has recently popped up called the Compass Rose Lodge. Offering a bit of Western Americana and a bit of ski chalet chic, this family-run hotel is full of charm. Every room comes equipped with all the modern conveniences: 4k televisions, premium linens, glass-paneled showers, and views of the surrounding mountains.
View of Downtown Ogden, Utah from the historical 25th street
J.Q. LOUISE
And if you are looking to stay somewhere with more of a Downtown feel, on the other side of the canyon is Ogden—a town famous for its Union Station between the two major railroad lines during the 19th century. Here you will find some funky Airbnb options and one worth checking out is the Helena Loft Hotel. And the town is even home to some cool speakeasies, which is a fun tongue-in-cheek homage to the area’s history as essentially a red light district. One certainly worth visiting is Unspoken, which happens to be in the basement below the Helena Loft Hotel.
Dining
Outdoor dining at Snowbasin features socially distanced seating and to-go meals
J.Q. LOUISE
Like destinations across the world, Snowbasin has had to make some changes to its dining options due to the ongoing pandemic. In an effort to reduce bottlenecks in high traffic areas such as lodges, the base area, and lifts, new procedures have been put in place. For example, new to-go dining options have been added near Earl’s Lodge, the Old Day Lodge, and the base of Strawberry Gondola. They have also added a new full-service bar at the Needles Lodge. ‘The Overlook,’ offers panoramic views from 8,700 feet above sea level! While the key focus at the resort has been to maintain the highest level of safety, the team has also put a strong emphasis on the enjoyment and comfort of all their guests.
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In addition to writing for the food section at the Boston Herald, Jacqueline brings her readers along on her travels around the world on her blog JQLouise.com