Deer Valley
Deer Valley ski resort near Park City,
Utah, is small compared to some of its neighbouring resorts. The annual snowfall is also slightly less, so to compete with other Utah resorts, Deer Valley has carved out a fabulous niche in the ski market. They cater to discerning guests who desire exclusivity and don’t mind paying more dollars for the privilege of the amazing service. Some of the amenities include ski valets who lift skis off car racks, carry guests’ ski gear, and provide overnight ski check services. Lift ticket sales are limited to ensure that the slopes are not crowded.
In line with the upscale and elegant ambience of the resort, snowboarding is not just frowned upon but prohibited. Deer Valley is a ski resort in the truest sense.
Like other Park City area resorts, the profile of the Deer Valley increased markedly as a result of the 2002 Winter Olympics. Deer Valley hosted the alpine slalom, freestyle moguls, and aerial events. Needless to say they didn’t host any snowboarding events.
Even the ski slopes of Deer Valley are upmarket, with top notch grooming to ensure the snow is perfectly manicured. It’s a medium-sized resort with lots of high speed detachable quad chairs, and terrain spread across six mountains that varies somewhat. Bald Eagle Mountain offers ideal terrain for beginners and intermediates. Bald Mountain features mostly confident intermediate and advanced runs including steeps on north faces and some gladed areas. Empire peak has the most advanced terrain including some gnarly chutes. Off-piste lovers don’t need to fear that the immaculate grooming that Deer Valley is famous for also extends to the expert terrain.
Deer Valley resort is 3km from the town of
Park City, Utah, which is about 50km from Salt Lake City. Ground transportation companies operate various regular transfers from the airport to the Park City area, and there is a free bus that provides transport around and between
Park City, Deer Valley and
The Canyons.
The accommodation at Deer Valley is rather posh, and has a price tag to match although you aren’t just paying for image but great service and quality lodgings. Many of the accommodations are slope-side which adds to the luxury. Less expensive accommodation can be found in Park City which is a quick shuttle bus ride away. Alternatively stay in Salt Lake City if you’re really on a budget. As to be expected, Deer Valley also features fine dining and some luxurious boutique shopping.
At Deer Valley you can expect exceptional customer service and amazing attention to detail. It probably isn’t the place to go if you’re a hard-core no-frills skier, and definitely not the place to go if you’re a grungy snowboarding dude. However if you want the ultimate in luxury and fabulous skiing, Deer Valley has got it.
More information on Deer Valley will be available after
the Powderhounds visit in early 2009. I’m really looking forward to having someone carry my skis!