Summer fun: Utah resorts have plenty to offer after the snow is gone

When the snow covers Utah's mountains, tourists from around the world, as well as locals, head for the hills to sample some of the best powder Mother Nature makes. Last year, nearly 4 million people flocked to those slopes filling local resorts beyond what some expected in tough economic times.

But now that the Greatest Snow on Earth has melted, what happens to Utah ski resorts? Simply put, the attraction — especially for locals — remains, but the lure is a bit different.

While skiers might disappear from the slopes, mountain bikers, hikers and ATV riders make their way into the mountains. Ski lifts at some of the resorts convert into scenic rides or bike lifts, as powder-covered slopes bloom with wildflowers and wildlife.

For some resorts, attempting to lure visitors in the summer months is nothing new. Park City's Alpine Slide is almost as famous as its ski slopes.

"The Alpine Slide has been around for 30 years," said Meisha Lawson, Park City Ski resort spokeswoman. "We actually have guests who came as children and are now bringing their own children."

Most resorts see more locals in the summer, especially in destination resorts like Park City and Deer Valley.

"It's definitely a different crowd," said Deer Valley spokeswoman Erin Grady. "In the summer, we have a lot more locals."

Deer Valley boasts one of the most high-profile concert series, as they feature outdoor performances by the Utah Symphony. This Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4, the orchestra will perform a "Patriotic Celebration." In addition to honoring America, the orchestra's performance will celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Apollo 11 Lunar Landing. The gates open at 5:30 p.m., and the concert starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets start at $30 for general admission and are available at www.deervalleymusicfestival.org.

In addition to classical concerts, the Utah Symphony concerts will also feature guests including LeAnn Rimes, Frederica von Stade and an ABBA tribute band. Deer Valley also offers special "staycation" lodging packages the can be coupled with the concert tickets.

Local resorts endured a better-than-expected winter season, thanks to consistent snow that actually allowed most resorts to extend their seasons. Still, they dealt with a 6.5 percent decline in skier days, according to Ski Utah, and strong summer seasons can only help the bottom line of resorts.

"We were really pleased with how the (ski) season turned out," said Lawson. "The weather was great. We had snow every couple of weeks, followed by beautifully sunny days."

The extra snowfall meant a longer season for many resorts, including Park City.