Ever had one of those mornings where you roll out of bed, see a mountain snow report, and practically jump into your gear from sheer excitement? That was us when we read that Solitude Mountain Resort got walloped with over 20 inches of fresh powder the day before we arrived. We just knew: this was the day to finally make our first trip up Big Cottonwood Canyon!
Quick Facts About Solitude Mountain Resort
- Location: Nestled in Big Cottonwood Canyon, about 30 miles from Salt Lake City.
- Terrain: 1,200 acres of skiable terrain, including groomers, glades, and bowls.
- Vertical: Base elevation at 7,994 feet, with a summit of 10,488 feet.
- Lifts: 8 lifts serve 82 named runs, catering to all skill levels.
- Snowfall: Averages around 500 inches of light, dry Utah powder every season.
There’s a reason locals rave about this place. Solitude might not have the massive buzz of some other Utah resorts, but that’s what makes it so magical—it’s a hidden gem with fewer crowds, yet it delivers massive stoke on a fresh powder day!
Getting to Solitude Mountain Resort: UTA Ski Bus Adventures
Before we even talk about the insane conditions, let’s chat about how we got up the canyon. If you’ve been on the fence about riding the UTA Ski Bus, let me tell you—it is seriously a game-changer, especially on a powder day.
- Where to Catch It
We hopped on the UTA Ski Bus (Route 972) at the Midvale Fort Union Station. There’s decent parking around there, but do plan to arrive early on weekends or powder days because it fills up fast. - Why We Love It
- No navigating canyon traffic. (Big Cottonwood Canyon can get super congested when the snow is good!)
- Sit back, sip your coffee, and admire the snowy scenery instead of white-knuckling the drive.
- The ride is short and scenic, and you’ll step off the bus ready to hit the slopes without the stress of finding parking at the resort.
- Pro Tip
Make sure you have your UTA pass, Ikon Pass, or exact fare ready. The buses don’t linger long at stops, and you don’t want to hold up a line of eager powder chasers!
By the time we arrived at Solitude, we were already in full-on “powder hound” mode—fresh and wide awake, thanks to the relaxing ride.
On the Slopes of Solitude Mountain Resort: Pure Powder Bliss
Let’s just say, 20 inches of freshies is like waking up to the best birthday present ever—times ten. The moment our boards and skis hit the snow, we knew we were in for something special.
- Eagle Express
If you’re chasing that perfect blend of intermediate and advanced terrain, start here. You’ll find groomers layered with pillowy snow—ideal for warming up your legs—and if you venture off the beaten path, you’ll discover hidden stashes of fluffy goodness waiting for first tracks. - Sunrise & Apex Express
These lifts are all about accessing diverse terrain quickly. We found plenty of tree runs and open bowls. Even into the afternoon, there were sneaky spots with untouched powder—always keep your eyes peeled for a line that no one else has spotted yet! - Moonbeam Express
Perfect for cruisy runs or anyone easing into a big powder day. It’s also a great area for families or beginners to build confidence before tackling the rest of the mountain.
Every lift we took seemed to deliver a fresh dose of winter wonderland. Solitude’s layout means you can hop around the mountain without feeling overwhelmed by crowds, even on a mega-powder day.
The Crew: Karlye, Rylie, and Michelle
A good mountain adventure becomes epic when you’re with the right friends. Here’s how the day played out with our powder posse:
- Rylie: Speed demon extraordinaire. She loves nothing more than pointing her skis downhill and letting gravity do its thing. With 20 inches of fluff, she was carving up a storm, laughing the whole way down.
- Karlye: All about finding that sweet spot in the trees. She has this uncanny knack for scouting out untouched lines, and we could hear her whoops echoing through the glades every time she dove into knee-deep powder.
- Michelle: This was her first day really embracing a powder fest, and she was a bit nervous at first. But once she discovered how forgiving soft powder can be, she was hooked—her confidence soared run by run.
It’s amazing how a day on the slopes with friends can turn even the simplest moments—like waiting in line for hot chocolate—into memories you’ll cherish for years.
Why We’re Already Planning Our Return
By lunchtime, we were blissfully exhausted—our legs feeling the burn, our cheeks bright with mountain air (and let’s be honest, a ton of smiling). Solitude might not be the biggest resort in Utah, but that’s actually part of its charm. It’s intimate, laid-back, and delivers a top-notch powder experience without the overwhelming hustle.
Between runs, we took a breather near the village base, sipping hot chocolate and basking in the sunshine. You’d think we’d be done after a few hours, but once that snow-bug bites, it’s hard to call it a day.
Final Tips & Tricks
- Arrive Early
Powder days attract crowds. Getting to Midvale Fort Union Station early ensures a good spot on the bus—and front-row positioning in the lift lines once you arrive. - Pack Smart
Throw an extra layer, snacks, and water in your daypack. Powder skiing can be more physically demanding, and you’ll be glad to have extra fuel on hand. - Check Conditions
Visit Solitude’s website or follow local snow reports before heading up. Big Cottonwood Canyon can have restrictions during storms, so stay safe and plan accordingly. - Know Your Runs
Explore different lifts to find the right mix of groomers, bowls, and tree runs. Don’t be shy about asking locals or staff for their favorite spots! - Après-Ski
Swing by the resort village for a warm drink or hearty meal once you’ve had your fill of powder. If your legs still work, it’s a great way to toast an epic day on the slopes.
Concluding the Journey to Solitude Mountain Resort
Our first trip to Solitude—blessed by over 20 inches of new snow—was one for the books. From the scenic UTA Ski Bus ride up Big Cottonwood Canyon to the knee-deep powder runs, it was everything a winter lover could ask for. And with friends like Karlye, Rylie, and Michelle cheering each other on, we soaked up every face shot and fresh track we could find.
So if you’re dreaming of a hassle-free journey to a mountain brimming with pristine powder, do yourself a favor: grab your gear, hop on the UTA Ski Bus, and make your way to Solitude Mountain Resort. We promise, it’ll be a day you won’t stop talking about—and you’ll likely be planning that next trip the minute you get home. See you out there!