Utah ski resorts all spruced up and ready for season

At a time when consumers demand value and convenience, Utah's 13 ski resorts are doing their best to consistently offer access and a quality experience to their customers.

Salt Lake City International Airport was recently ranked No. 1 one in the nation for having the most on-time flights, according to data from the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. The Salt Lake airport is located within an hour's drive of 11 of the state's ski and snowboard resorts, enabling many visitors to maximize their time by being able to hit the slopes the same day they arrive in town.

In an effort to boost tourism and better serve visitors, Utah legislators made the most significant change to the state's liquor laws in 40 years. Utah bars are now open to the general public, and the state's previous private club system, which required customers to fill out an application and pay a fee to enter a bar, has been eliminated. This year, the state's ski resorts have added to the amenities, products and services that will be available for the 2009-10 winter season. The following improvements, according to Ski Utah, have been made at Utah's resorts:

Alta Ski Area: The resort's popular Albion Basin Day Lodge has been remodeled to better accommodate guests.

Beaver Mountain: Has added a new conveyor lift to better access the resort's beginner terrain.

Brian Head: Customers who purchase 10 gallons of gas or more at select gas stations in southern Utah will receive a coupon offering 50 percent off midweek skiing at Utah's only southern resort.

Brighton: Two children 10-and-under ski free with one paying adult. The resort offers 200 acres of groomed night skiing.

The Canyons: The new Dakota Mountain Lodge & Golden Door Spa, Waldorf Astoria Collection's first ski-in, ski-out property, will accommodate guests starting this season. The lodge features 175 guest rooms and suites with high-quality amenities, custom furnishings and gourmet kitchens. Guests will also be able to dine at its Spruce Restaurant.

Deer Valley Resort: Has expanded its services to include a new property management division that will assure the "Deer Valley difference" from the moment guests check-in. In addition, the St. Regis Deer Crest Resort will provide a new lodging option for Deer Valley guests. The St. Regis features 248 guest rooms and suites with high-quality amenities, a ski beach and infinity pool. The spa will enable guests to refresh with signature treatments after a day on the slopes.