News category
Latest in Utah
Sundance Mountain Resort Is Getting a New High-Speed Quad and More Back Mountain Terrain This Winter
Sundance Mountain Resort's back mountain is finally getting a proper lift. The Electric Horseman Express opens for 2026-27, unlocking a new bowl next to Bishop's Bowl and three expert gladed chutes across roughly 105 fresh acres - on top of the Storyteller ridge run that debuted in preview form last season. It's Sundance's biggest expansion since 1985, and it turns a three-lift slog into a single six-minute ride to Bearclaw Summit.
Michael Fulton
Eagle Point Resort Destroyed by Cottonwood Fire as Utah Blaze Tops 59,000 Acres
Utah's Eagle Point Resort has suffered catastrophic losses after the Cottonwood Fire tore through the Tushar Mountains, destroying the Lower Lodge and multiple condominiums. The human-caused blaze reached nearly 60,000 acres with zero containment as of Wednesday - and worsening weather is forecast for the weekend. The resort has confirmed it will remain closed for a considerable time.
Michael Fulton
Vail Resorts Hires Defence Bankers as Billionaire Pushes to Buy Park City Mountain Resort
Vail Resorts has quietly engaged takeover-defence bankers to assess its vulnerabilities, as pressure builds from multiple directions - a rough winter, union tensions, and a persistent billionaire who wants to buy Park City Mountain Resort. Cloudflare CEO Matthew Prince has gone public with a $500 million offer and says activist investors are calling him. Vail's CEO isn't selling.
Michael Fulton
Park City Mountain Resort Gets Approval for Eagle and Silverlode Chairlift Replacements
Park City Mountain Resort has received planning approval to replace two major chairlifts - Eagle and Silverlode - with higher-capacity alternatives likely to debut in the 2027-28 season. The approvals end a years-long process that saw an earlier approval appealed, the original lifts redirected to Whistler Blackcomb, and a fresh application filed.
Michael Fulton
Sundance Mountain Resort Begins Construction on Electric Horseman High-Speed Chairlift
Sundance Mountain Resort in Utah has begun construction on the Electric Horseman Express, a detachable high-speed quad chairlift with a vertical rise of 1,850 feet and a six-minute ride time. The lift forms the centrepiece of a terrain expansion adding 105 skiable acres and 6 new trails for the 2026-27 season. Construction is currently in the staging phase at the Mountain Camp base area.
Michael Fulton
Alta Records Lowest Snowfall in History, is it a Troubling Trend
Utah's Alta Ski Area endured a historically dry 2025-26 season, receiving just 321 inches of snowfall – the lowest on record. This highlights a broader pattern of declining snowpack in the West and raises concerns about the future of skiing.
Michael Fulton
Brighton Resort Extends Season to May After Late Spring Snow
Brighton pushed its closing date back a week to 10 May after spring storms delivered enough snow to justify extended operations. The Utah resort was among only three still operating following what's been documented as the state's lowest snowpack since 1980.
Michael Fulton
Alta Opens for Uphill Travel After Season Close
Alta closed its lift operations on 26 April following a 13-inch powder day, but uphill access remains open through the off-season. The mountain is now unpatrolled backcountry with no avalanche mitigation or emergency services - and you'll need to bring your own rescue capability.
Michael Fulton
Powder Mountain Private Side Announces $157 Million Development Phase
Powder Haven, the private membership side of Powder Mountain in Utah, has announced a $157 million expansion including two new chairlifts, a 73,000-square-foot clubhouse, and additional real estate development. The additions will give members access to six lifts and over 3,000 skiable acres.
Michael Fulton
Park City Extends Paid Parking to Canyons Village for 2026-27
Park City Mountain Resort is converting the previously free Cabriolet lot at Canyons Village to paid parking from the 2026-27 season. The US$29 daily charge represents another reduction in free parking options across Utah resorts, though several workarounds remain available.
Michael Fulton
How the West Lost Its Winter: The 2025-26 US Snow Drought Explained
The 2025-26 ski season across the western United States wasn't just a bad year - it was the worst on record. A massive marine heat wave, a stubborn high-pressure ridge, and relentless warmth combined to destroy snowpack across eight states, force at least 69 ski resorts to close early, and wipe roughly $100 million from Vail Resorts' bottom line. Here's what happened, why it happened, and what it means for skiing's future.
Michael Fulton
Utah Resorts Score Late Season Snowfall After Disappointing Winter
Utah's ski resorts received significant April snowfall, with Brighton recording 29 inches from a single storm. Seven of the state's 15 resorts remain open to take advantage of the late-season conditions, offering temporary relief after a below-average winter.
Michael Fulton
Snowbird 2026-27 Season Passes On Sale Now — $100 Renewal Credit and Free Kids Pass Included
Snowbird has launched its 2026-27 season passes at the lowest price of the year, with a $100 renewal credit for returning passholders and the return of the Freeloader Pass — a free under-18 pass bundled with every qualifying adult pass. Early Bird buyers also get a free night at The Cliff Lodge.
Michael Fulton
Western U.S. Ski Resorts Close Early as Warm Weather Compounds Poor Snow Season
A heat wave hitting the western United States has forced dozens of ski resorts to close early or abandon their seasons entirely. With below-average snowpacks across the region, the warm spell has ended operations at over 40 resorts from Arizona to Montana.
Michael Fulton
Snowbasin to Close March 22 After Difficult Utah Winter
Snowbasin Resort will close its 2025-26 season on March 22, weeks earlier than its typical mid-April closure. Warm temperatures and low snowfall drove the decision, with rain falling on Christmas Day compounding the challenges. The resort joins a growing list of operations cutting seasons short.
Michael Fulton
Utah Billionaire Escalates Campaign Against Vail Resorts Ownership of Park City
Matthew Prince, Utah's wealthiest resident, has intensified his public criticism of Vail Resorts' management of Park City Mountain Resort. The Cloudflare CEO claims Vail's 10-year stock performance has been dismal and argues the company should sell off individual resorts. Vail says it's not selling.
Michael Fulton
Vail Resorts Drops My Epic Gear Membership Fee, Makes Premium Rentals Standard
Vail Resorts is scrapping the $50 My Epic Gear membership fee and rolling premium rental features into standard offerings. Starting next season, anyone booking Demo rentals at 12 resorts can select specific gear models online, access BOA ski boots and Step On bindings at no extra cost.
Michael Fulton
Deer Valley Opens East Village Gondola and Pinyon Express as Expansion Takes Shape
Deer Valley's expansion reached its first operational milestone on 27 December with the opening of two new lifts. The 10-passenger East Village Gondola and Pinyon Express six-pack now provide access to previously inaccessible terrain, though five more lifts remain unopened this season.
Michael Fulton
Brian Head Becomes Utah’s First Resort to Open for the 2025-26 Season
After receiving 10 inches of snowfall in the last week, Brian Head Resort became Utah’s first resort to open the 2025–26 ski season on Friday, November 21. The resort was originally scheduled to open on November 7 and subsequently postponed season opening twice, first to November 15 and then to November 21.
Michael Fulton
Alterra's $400M Investment: Deer Valley Expansion Takes Centre Stage
Alterra Mountain Company announces a $400 million capital investment program, with a significant focus on expanding Deer Valley Resort in Utah. The plan includes doubling skiable terrain and adding new lifts, but questions remain about the impact on the resort's character and pricing.
Michael Fulton
Park City Mountain's Lift Upgrade Plans Derailed by 1998 Agreement
A Utah court ruling has blocked Park City Mountain's proposed lift upgrades, citing a decades-old development agreement. This setback highlights ongoing tensions between Vail Resorts and the local community over infrastructure improvements and resort capacity.
Michael Fulton
Deer Valley's $600 Million Expansion: Four Seasons Resort Development
Extell Development Company has secured a $600 million loan for the construction of Four Seasons Resort and Residences in Deer Valley, Utah. This project marks the first new luxury alpine village development in North America in over 40 years.
Michael Fulton
Utah Ski Season 2024-25: Third-Busiest Year Despite Visitor Decline
Utah's ski resorts recorded their third-busiest season ever with 6.5 million visitors in 2024-25, but the 3.6% decline from the previous year highlights growing challenges. Weather patterns, the Park City strike, and economic pressures all contributed to the drop, even as the industry invests hundreds of millions in new infrastructure ahead of the 2034 Olympics.
Michael Fulton
Utah Ski Resorts Maintain Strong Visitation Despite Weather Challenges
Utah's ski resorts saw a slight dip in visitors during the 2024-2025 season, but still recorded the third-highest total on record with over 6.5 million skier visits.
Michael Fulton
Vail Resorts CEO Confirms Park City Mountain Not for Sale
Vail Resorts CEO Rob Katz has firmly stated that Park City Mountain is not for sale, despite recent interest from a tech billionaire. This article explores the situation and its implications for the popular Utah ski resort.
Michael Fulton
Sundance Mountain Resort Expands with New High-Speed Quad and Terrain
Sundance Mountain Resort in Utah is set to enhance its skiing experience with a new high-speed quad lift and 165 acres of additional terrain for the 2026-27 winter season.
Michael Fulton
Park City Mountain Resort: Local Tech CEO's Vision for Acquisition and Expansion
Matthew Prince, CEO of Cloudflare, has purchased Town Lift Plaza in Park City and expressed interest in acquiring Park City Mountain Resort from Vail Resorts, with plans for significant upgrades including a potential gondola connection to Alta.
Michael Fulton
Deer Valley's New Gondola Project Progresses
Deer Valley Resort in Utah is making significant progress on its new gondola project, part of a major expansion plan set to transform the ski area.
Michael Fulton
Deer Valley's Major Expansion Plans for 2025 and Beyond
Deer Valley Resort in Utah is undergoing significant changes, with new trails, lifts, and base area developments planned over the next several years. This article outlines the recent expansions and future projects that will transform the ski resort.
Michael Fulton
Mountain Capital Partners Invests $15M+ in Ski Resort Upgrades
Mountain Capital Partners announces over $15 million in improvements across its ski resorts following a record-breaking 2024/2025 season, with upgrades planned for Purgatory, Arizona Snowbowl, Brian Head, and other properties.
Michael Fulton
Brian Head Resort Celebrates Longest Season in Its History
Brian Head Resort in Southern Utah concludes its 2024-25 season with a record-breaking 178 skiable days, surpassing last year's record and setting new visitation highs.
Michael Fulton
Epic Pass 2025/26: A Comprehensive Buying Guide for Skiers and Riders
Explore the various Epic Pass options for the 2025/26 season, including new resort access, pricing, and benefits for skiers and snowboarders looking to maximise their mountain time across multiple destinations.
Michael Fulton
Utah Ski Resort Closing Dates for 2024-25 Season
As the 2024-25 ski season winds down in Utah, find out when your favourite resorts are planning to close and make the most of the remaining snow days.
Michael Fulton
Powder Mountain Expands Private Lift Network Amid Master Plan Review
Powder Mountain in Utah continues its development with a new private lift approval, even as its master plan awaits county review. The resort's expansion strategy blends public access with exclusive memberships.
Michael Fulton
Brian Head Resort Offers Affordable Spring Skiing with $3.80 Daily Passes
Brian Head Resort in Utah is offering exceptional value for spring skiing, with weekday passes available for as low as $3.80 per day. The resort also provides free skiing for children under 12 and discounts on equipment rentals and lessons.
Michael Fulton
Cottonwood Canyon Ski Resorts in Utah Receive Significant April Snowfall
Utah's Cottonwood Canyon ski resorts have been blanketed with fresh powder, receiving up to a foot of snow in the past 24 hours. This April snowfall has boosted season totals and improved conditions across Alta, Brighton, Snowbird, and Solitude.
Michael Fulton
Snowbasin Auctions Historic Becker Triple Chairlifts
Snowbasin Ski Resort is auctioning 117 retired triple chairlifts from the Becker lift, offering skiers and riders a chance to own a piece of Ogden's skiing history. The auction supports local youth winter sports programs.
Michael Fulton
Snowbird Launches 2025-26 Season Passes with Early Access
Snowbird unveils its 2025-26 season pass offerings, featuring the return of the Freeloader Pass program and early access to current-season skiing for new passholders. Various pass options and benefits are available, including flexible payment plans and discounts.
Michael Fulton
Alta's Supreme Lift Upgrade: Smoother Rides Coming in 2025
Alta Ski Area announces plans to straighten and upgrade the Supreme lift, eliminating the notorious 'bend' and improving the skiing experience for the 2025-26 season.
Michael Fulton
Alta Ski Area Reaches 500-Inch Snowfall Milestone
Alta Ski Area in Utah has surpassed 500 inches of total snowfall this season, marking a significant turnaround from a slow start. The recent storms have created ideal conditions for spring skiing.
Michael Fulton
Mineral Basin Chairlift Repair Delays Access to Popular Snowbird Terrain
Snowbird Resort has announced a temporary closure of its signature Mineral Basin terrain pod due to mechanical issues with the chairlift, expected to last until late this week despite promising snow conditions.
Michael Fulton
Park City-Deer Valley Gondola Connection: New Feasibility Study Planned
Park City officials are taking steps toward a potential aerial gondola system connecting the historic Main Street district with Deer Valley Resort. The City Council is considering hiring specialised consultants to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study, marking a significant move in the long-discussed transportation initiative.
Michael Fulton
Park City Ski Patrol Strike Hitting Vail Resorts Where It Hurts
The ongoing ski patrol strike at Park City Mountain Resort has created significant operational challenges for Vail Resorts during peak season. With patrollers demanding higher wages and only 50 of 350 trails initially open, this labor dispute highlights broader challenges facing one of North America's largest ski resort operators.
Michael Fulton
Powder Mountain Utah Unveils Lightning Ridge Lift, Opening New Expert Terrain
Powder Mountain celebrates its biggest infrastructure upgrade in ten years with the Lightning Ridge lift opening, providing access to advanced terrain and deep powder. The new Skytrac fixed-grip quad marks a significant expansion for Utah's powder skiing haven.
Michael Fulton
Brian Head Resort Is Utah's First Ski Resort to Open for 2024-25 Season
Brian Head Resort leads Utah's ski season, opening on November 8, 2024, with top-to-bottom runs on Navajo Mountain. Marking their second-earliest opening in 60 years, the resort offers four pristine trails and attractive early-season rates, including free skiing for kids under 12.
Michael Fulton
Best Ski Resort In Utah For Beginners in 2025
Planning your first ski trip? Utah's resorts offer an unmatched experience for beginners, with terrain ranging from 13 gentle trails to a whopping 38 beginner-friendly runs across 1,975 acres. From Powder Mountain's uncrowded slopes to Park City's world-class instruction and Deer Valley's luxurious amenities, we've analyzed every resort to help you choose the perfect destination. Discover why Utah should top your list for learning to ski or snowboard.
Michael Fulton
Latest News
More from the SnowStash desk
FIS Weighs Holding World Championships in Almost Every Winter, Starting 2032
The International Ski and Snowboard Federation is looking at a major shake-up to its title events calendar. From 2032, World Championships could run not just in odd-numbered years but in every non-Olympic winter too, effectively putting a global title event on the calendar almost every season. The FIS Council has approved the concept following a feasibility study, though an accelerated rollout as early as 2028 is also under consideration.
4 Sept 2026
Mount Buller Becomes Latest Australian Resort to Call Time Early on 2026
Mount Buller closes out its 2026 season this Sunday, joining Falls Creek, Hotham and Charlotte Pass in a cluster of closures landing almost simultaneously and roughly a month ahead of schedule. The culprit is stark: Spencers Creek's benchmark snow depth hit 31.2cm on 3 September, just 18% of the 73-year average and an all-time low for this point in the season. Six of Victoria and NSW's best-known resorts will have shut their lifts early within a span of about two and a half weeks.
4 Sept 2026
Tremblant to Add New Timber Summit Ski Sector for 2027/28 Season
Tremblant has confirmed a major expansion of its Quebec ski area, with a new Timber Summit sector adding 62 acres of terrain, eight trails and a high-speed quad chairlift for winter 2027/28. It's part of a CAD 42.5 million investment that also includes a new beginner learning zone at Versant Soleil opening this coming season. The project has grown considerably since it was first announced back in 2020, when it carried a far smaller budget and an opening date that never eventuated.
2 Sept 2026
Mount Hotham to Close for the 2026 Season on Sunday, September 6
We knew when the Bird Bath Pond Skim showed up on Hotham's Instagram that the season was on its way out. It's been a rough one - I only managed two days on snow all year, at Falls Creek - and now Baw Baw, Selwyn and Hotham have all called it, possibly the worst Australian season I've seen in a decade. Hotham's last day of lift operations is Sunday, 6 September, with a Retro Day, Father's Day après and closing sales before the lifts stop turning for good.
1 Sept 2026
Thredbo to Replace Ageing Gunbarrel Quad With New Six-Seat Chairlift for 2028
Thredbo Alpine Resort has confirmed plans to replace its 37-year-old Gunbarrel quad chairlift with a new six-seat Doppelmayr D-Line, targeting winter 2028. The AUD 35 million project will keep travel time roughly the same but lift capacity from 2,800 to 3,000 skiers per hour. It's part of a broader investment push that also includes doubled snowmaking capacity at Friday Flat for 2027, with the ageing Kosciuszko Express now flagged as the resort's next major lift replacement after Gunbarrel.
31 Aug 2026
Aerial Tram Collides With Crane at Alpe d'Huez: 23 Injured
An aerial tram carrying around fifty passengers struck the boom of a construction crane on the route to Pic Blanc at Alpe d'Huez on Wednesday morning, injuring 23 people, three seriously. The cabin tipped on impact before the operator reversed it to right the car. Most of the injured were treated on site, with five taken to hospital in Grenoble, including a pregnant woman assessed as a precaution.
28 Aug 2026
Why Glaciers Are Collapsing - And What Happens When They Do
A deadly flood on the Nepal-China border, a decade-old tragedy on Italy's Marmolada, and an unstable glacier right now above a village near Zermatt - three very different mountain ranges, the same underlying story. Warming ice is destabilising terrain that was considered settled for generations, and the results range from catastrophic floods to slow-motion monitoring situations that could go either way.
27 Aug 2026
Pitztal Glacier Set to Reopen for the 2026/27 Ski Season on 26 September
Tyrol's highest ski area is gearing up to open a full month ahead of most of the Alps. The Pitztal Glacier is scheduled to start its 2026/27 season on Saturday 26 September, running through to 2 May 2027, with the lower-altitude Rifflsee area following in December. High-altitude terrain up to 3,440 metres gives the glacier a head start on snow, though as always, the actual opening extent will depend on how September's weather plays out. Early online ski pass bookings can save up to 30%.
26 Aug 2026