Snowbird has long been a favorite with local and visiting skiers, not only for its skiable terrain but also for its majestic beauty. Because of its higher elevation, it tends to receive more snow that some other areas. The fact that skiers can now buy a combined pass and ski both Alta and Snowbird on the same day, thanks to the link in Mineral Basin, they are able to double their skiing pleasure.

Scheduled to open this year is the very first "skier's tunnel," which makes for easier access to Mineral Basin and back.

Solitude

Number of lifts: 8 — 3 high-speed quads, 1 triple and 4 double

Vertical: 2,047 feet

Skiable acres: 1,200

Terrain: 20 percent beginner, 50 percent intermediate and 30 percent expert

Top elevation: 10,035

Number of runs: 64

Snowboard: Yes

Terrain park: 1

Comment: Construction on the new resort in Big Cottonwood Canyon started in 1956, and the resort opened in 1957.

After an exchange of owners, a former member of the Solitude ski patrol purchased the area and started it on the road to world recognition. Dave DeSeelhorst purchased the resort in the late 1970s and continued the process, making it the first resort in Utah to introduce skiers to the now-popular high-speed quad in 1989.

Solitude offers a long history of skiing and has long been considered one of Utah's "hidden jewels" when it comes to skiing.

Sundance

Number of lifts: 4 — 1 quad, 2 triple and 1 rope tow

Vertical drop: 2,150 feet

Skiable acres: 450

Terrain: 20 percent beginner, 40 percent intermediate, 40 percent expert

Top elevation: 8,250 feet

Number of runs: 42

Snowboarding: Yes

Comment: Skiing started around 1946 when Raymond Stewart installed a rope tow and began calling the ski area Timp Haven.

In 1963, Robert Redford built a home near the resort and took up an interest in getting into the ski business. He purchased the resort in 1968.