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The Utah Ski Safari is just one of Ski Safari’s signature multi-centre ski holidays. Spanning two states, three mountains and 500 miles of highway over 14 days, it's one of their most popular too. James Rivers, USA Product Manager, shares why it’s perfect for skiers and boarders looking for more than just a ski holiday.
“When a ski destination is able to trademark the phrase ‘The Greatest Snow on Earth™’, you know you’re in for a treat!”, enthuses James, who spent nine ski seasons in Park City. Deep in the heart of Utah on the edge of the ‘Wasatch Back’ is the old silver mining town of Park City, home to three world-class ski resorts – Park City Mountain Resort, Canyons Resort and Deer Valley. To put their close proximity to each other into context he jokes, “They’re so close you could almost throw a snowball between them!”
And they’re huge. If all three were combined they’d form the biggest skiable area in North America, and just recently it was announced that Canyons and Park City will in fact be interlinked in 2015/16, creating the largest ski area in the USA. For now they’re connected by a free and environmentally friendly ski shuttle. “We usually recommend our customers base themselves in Park City,” says James, “as the reliable and punctual shuttle picks up from right outside the Park City Peaks Hotel (one of our best-selling hotels). You and your skis can be in Main Street or at the base of Park City, Canyons or Deer Valley within minutes.”
So what about the skiing? Park City Mountain Resort is a true intermediate’s paradise, with some easily accessed bowls and leg-warming bump runs. Canyons Resort is a mecca for skiers and riders with miles of groomers, an epic one-mile long terrain park, gladed powder stashes and a modern lift system, which has seen huge investment over the last two years. The more exclusive Deer Valley is a skiers-only resort, promising an extra-special experience with incredible skiing on frequently and immaculately manicured pistes.
For unlimited access to all three mountains, the Three Resort International Pass is the most convenient and flexible, as you can choose to ski any resort on any day. A 6 day pass costs £311 for an adult. If you’re prepared to plan ahead and commit to specific days in specific resorts, then you can save a bit of money by combining the Canyons/Park City ticket with day tickets for Deer Valley.
Off the mountain there’s heaps for non-skiers too. Soak up the charm of the town’s Main Street, ride a bob sleigh in the Olympic Park, pick up a bargain in one of the many factory outlet stores or unwind in the nearby natural hot springs.
Southern Utah’s red rock landscapes, home to the iconic Bryce Canyon and Zion and Arches National Parks, are just a short drive from Park City. There’s hiking, horse riding, canyoneering and some of the most famous mountain biking in the world. Top off your adventure with a night in the 24 hour city of Las Vegas. Tagging on a four night road trip to your Park City, Canyons Resort & Deer Valley ski holiday can cost from as little as £200pp, and a typical itinerary includes:
• Economy flights
• Transfers to resort
• 4 days car hire
• 10 nights in The Park City Peaks Hotel (B&B)
• 1 night in Bryce Canyon
• 1-2 nights in St George (Zion)
• 1-2 nights in Las Vegas
How Much?
A 10-night stay in Park City at the Park City Peaks (B&B) starts from £1335 per person based on 2 sharing, including flights into Salt Lake City, car hire and transfers and departing 8 January 2015. Upgrade to the Utah Ski Safari from just £200 extra per person including accommodation in Bryce Canyon, Zion and Las Vegas. Call Ski Safari on 01273 224060 or visit skisafari.com/utahskisafari.
