All it takes is a quick look at the cars driving down I-15 to learn something about Utah. The first might be the fact that there are way too many minivans on Utah roads. The second is that one license plate after another will remind you that Utah has, “The Greatest Snow on Earth.” Growing up in Utah, this is a phrase that I was extremely proud of. Ever since I was young skiing has played a vital role in life. In elementary school, every Friday in the winter was dedicated to “ski school” where me and my friends would go up to the mountains and ski. I always had the motto that I couldn’t let school get in the way of my education. Now that I am graduated and working for Thread, this motto has changed slightly. I have responsibilities and projects that need to get done, but I still insist on getting up to the mountains as much as possible. It doesn’t help that our headquarters sit at the base of the 11,753-foot Mount Timpanogos, one of the most iconic, and picturesque mountains in the Wasatch range. With Mount Timpanogas as a backdrop, it is no wonder that the vast majority of the Thread team enjoys getting up to the mountains to shred.
Here are a few of my favorite places to enjoy the “Greatest Snow on Earth.”
Sundance: Sundance resort sits on the backside of Timpanogos located roughly 15 minutes from the “ThreadQuarters.” Sundance has what I would consider some of the best scenery in all of Utah. You will most certainly not find a prettier ski resort around. In addition to the gorgeous views, Sundance also has some amazing ski terrain. My personal favorite is flying down Amy’s ridge after it has been freshly groomed. Although it is on the smaller side, you can most certainly find stuff to keep you busy run after run.
In addition to the wonderful ski terrain, Sundance also has what I would consider some “premium eats.” After a long day of skiing, head over to the foundry grill for a delicious dinner. Or if you are a bit different scene, spend your evenings at the Owl Bar. They usually have live bands on the weekend and a good food menu.
Deer Valley: Situated just a few miles away from Park City’s famous Main Street, Deer Valley is my go to for a truly immersive skiing experience. (You can also access the resort on the Heber City side of the mountain, which makes it a mere 35-minute drive from work here at Thread.) Deer Valley is known for their grooming and in my experience, this certainly rings true. Deer Valley also has an abundance of terrain and options. Some of my favorites including anything off of the Sultan lift and, and groomers off of Wasatch and Sterling. It is also fun looking at all of the gorgeous cabins that dot the ski runs. Take a run down “last chance” and you might just see the famous “Bear House.”
All of that skiing will certainly work up an appetite. I love their famous turkey chili in addition to their fresh cookies! If you are staying in or around the resort for more than a day, the Deer Valley Seafood Buffet at Snowpark Lodge is a must.
Snowbasin: Certainly, Snowbasin takes the cake for the best-hidden gem of Utah. Snowbasin wasn’t even on the map before they hosted the 2002 Olympic Men and Women’s downhill. Although it flies under the radar of most people, Snowbasin has some of the best runs and best vertical in the state. I thoroughly enjoy lapping the Middle Bowl chair in addition to long runs off of the Strawberry Gondola. Another aspect of Snowbasin that is top notch is their lodges. When you are worn out from skiing, drop into any of their lodges and you will find great food in a great environment.
Overall, Utah has some of the best skiing in the world! We here at Thread highly recommend getting out and enjoying it…We know we sure do!
