Worker’s hands have not been idle at Utah ski resorts during the off season as on-mountain improvements are nearing completion in time for winter. Every year, visitors expect something new at their favorite mountain, and in general, every resort delivers. Below is a list of what’s shiny and new in Utah’s mountains according to Ski Utah.
Alta: Greenery is what’s new at Alta, as they planted 1,500 trees, 500 shrubs and spread 500 pounds of indigenous mountain flower and grass seeds. Alta’s wind-blown, open spaces may see a little forest green this winter, although we won’t benefit from the grass and wildflowers until next summer. www.alta.com
The Canyons: By far, the biggest construction project at a Utah ski resort is the base-area overhaul at The Canyons. They’ve installed the nation’s first “bubble chair,” an enclosed high-speed quad with heated seats. In addition, the gondola is being realigned to a more central location in the base village, creating what they’re calling a new “après ski beach.” The Canyons is also adding new terrain on Iron Mountain which will open up over 300 acres of intermediate and advanced runs. www.thecanyons.com
Deer Valley: Renovations were made to the interiors of Empire Canyon Lodge, Silver Lake Lodge and Snow Park Lodge. Improvements were also made in the snowmaking department, and new snowcats were purchased to continue that perfect grooming reputation. www.deervalley.com
Park City Mountain Resort: PCMR has been glading Crescent Ridge, adding new snowmaking, and expanding night skiing with brighter lights and extended hours. www.parkcitymountain.com
Powder Mountain: 1,000 acres, called La Plata, have been added to the 2,000 acres of terrain already in use by the Snowcat Powder Safari. In addition, Powder Mountain will provide the opportunity to take a guided backcountry tour on 1,000 acres in Wolf Canyon. www.powdermountain.com
Snowbasin: Attention jibbers! A 22-foot superpipe will be added to the terrain park. www.snowbasin.com
Snowbird: Nothing new for on-mountain improvement, but the Cliff Spa in the Cliff Lodge is undergoing a major renovation… the first since opening in 1987. Get there early to grab those posters of neon snowsuit-clad hotdoggers from the dumpsters. www.snowbird.com
Sundance: Utah County’s lone ski resort will open its new Redford Conference Center with 3,500 square feet of meeting space, and will also renovate the lodging rooms. www.sundanceresort.com