There’s More to Do in Utah Than Ski

Utah is well-known for its wonderful winters (even the Olympics thought so!) so naturally, its skiing is unparalleled. Park City, in particular, has a host of ski resorts that help draw in over half a million tourists to the little mountain town each year. Still not convinced? Park City Ski Resort is the largest ski resort in North America! But what if you don’t want to ski? Should you write off the entire state? Well, if the title of this article wasn’t enough of a hint, the answer is a resounding, “Of course not!” Utah winters are a sight to behold even if you never step foot near a pair of skis. We have compiled some of the best Beehive State winter activities for you to consider on your next trip to Utah.

Tubing

If skis and snowboards aren’t your thing, we have another way for you to make it down the mountain: tubing! This sport is just as exhilarating as skiing and a lot of fun. If you are staying near Salt Lake City, try Gorgoza Park. It’s just 30 minutes outside the city and has seven tubing lanes and night tubing. Really into tubing? Try Soldier Hollow, which has the longest tubing lanes in Utah at 1200 feet. For other tubing opportunities, try Wasatch Parc to the north and Brian Head Resort or Snowbasin Resort to the south.

Snowmobiling

If tubing lacks the directional control you crave, why not try snowmobiling? This sport is enjoyable for all ages, either as operators or passengers. Utah has over 800 miles of trails to explore across the entire state, meaning the options are practically endless. Go for a day, go for a week! Whatever you hope to get out of the experience, there is a trail (or trails) for you.

Snowshoeing

Have small kids? Give snowshoeing a try. Believe it or not, the simple act of walking on snow can be more enjoyable than you might think, especially for little kids. Pack a few snacks, grab some snowshoes and bundle the kids up like Randy in A Christmas Story. It’s time to make some family memories in the snow!

Ice Skating

Walking on snow is too simple, you say? Try a pair of ice skates on for size! Of course, ice skating is a quintessential winter favorite for young and old. Whatever your dream backdrop, Utah has a skating rink there. Looking to ice skate while your travel companions hit the slopes? There are slopeside rinks at Park City Mountain Resort, Solitude Mountain Resort and Cherry Peak Resort. Seeking a cityscape experience? The Ice Rink at Gallivan Center is calling your name. Looking to bring home that gold medal? There are many Olympic rinks to try, including the Utah Olympic Oval, Peaks Ice Arena, and the Ice Sheet at Ogden.

Ice Castles

Sometimes you just want to Let It Go in an ice castle. We feel you. These beautiful sculptures are a delight to explore for all ages. Some even include slides! These castles are a unique way to get in the winter wonderland spirit, and they only pick a few locations, so check out http://icecastles.com/ to plan your ice castle outing.

Sleigh Rides

Equally magical are sleigh rides! Whether it’s via a horse-drawn cart or an actual sleigh, visit the Homestead Resort to experience this picturesque winter wonderland activity. Couples especially will love snuggling under a blanket and taking in the breathtaking sights of the Heber Valley and Wasatch Mountains.

Hot Springs

When your Instagram-worthy sleigh ride comes to an end, the fun doesn’t have to stop! The Homestead Resort also offers relaxing soaks in its natural hot spring. The Homestead Crater, as it’s called, is a 55-foot tall, beehive shaped dome that conceals the geothermal spring. Soaking seem a little boring? How about paddle board yoga classes, snorkeling or scuba diving in the only warm scuba diving destination in the continental United States? Sign us up!

Hot Chocolate

If none of these activities have piqued your interest, how about this last one: hot chocolate. This delicious drink is a staple of Utah and found on many a menu. Plenty of coffee shops will have hot chocolate concoctions to make even the most discerning of cocoa connoisseurs come back for seconds. Prefer your cacao a little more on the solid side? Utah has you covered there, too, as the state’s budding artisan chocolate production is starting to make a stir. Pun intended.

If skiing isn’t your thing, we promise you’ll find something in Utah that is. Maybe it’s a GCD home! If you think it’s time to make vacation permanent, we are happy to help you every step of the way. Come see why our motto is Living Designed Well. We will get you on the path to homeownership before you can say, “winter!”