Snowbasin is a world-renowned resort that we in Ogden are lucky enough to have right here in our backyard. The resort put itself on the map after hosting the Downhill and Super G events during the 2002 Olympics in Salt Lake City and plans to do the same when they return in 2034. Skiers and snowboarders have access to a whopping 3,000 acres via 13 lifts, making it one of the most expansive resorts in the state.
Every time you head up the lifts you have an astounding 114 runs to choose from. Although every run has its place on the mountain, five stand out in our minds. Everyone should hit each of these at least once, whether you’re visiting for a few days on a ski trip or you’re lucky enough to call Snowbasin your home resort.
Fair warning: the last two runs are reserved for experienced skiers and snowboarders only!
1. Dan’s Run
Dan’s Run resides in the Needles area of the mountain and features three separate steep pitches from top to bottom. The run drops and flattens between each pitch and feels like a ski resort’s version of a roller coaster. This local favorite also features a hidden gem tucked away in a section of pine trees just after the third pitch: a collection of homemade birdhouses that grows with each season. Be sure to keep an eye out for it!
2. Elk Ridge
Elk Ridge starts at the top of Strawberry Gondola and guides you through an extensive, top-to-bottom adventure across the Strawberry side of the mountain. It is the longest trail at Snowbasin, one of the longest in the state, and provides an ongoing opportunity to link turns on some of the best-groomed snow you can find.
3. Porcupine Face
Porcupine Face runs down skier’s left from the top of the Porcupine lift. Since Porcupine is one of the oldest lifts still standing on the mountain and few are willing to wait out the nearly 15-minute lift ride, you can often find untouched corduroy well into the day. And on a powder day, the off-piste rewards for your patience that await are even more wonderful.
4. Grizzly and Wildflower Downhill
Grizzly and Wildflower Downhills might be two of the most sought-after trails on the mountain. Catch the Allen Peak Tram to the highest point in the resort and ride like the world’s best winter athletes did in 2002 (and will again in 2034!). These deceivingly steep runs are guaranteed to be some of the most exhilarating of your life.
5. Lone Tree
Lone Tree is the resort’s iconic run and towers high above Middle Bowl. Snowbasin’s old logo paid homage to the single tree sitting atop this double black diamond. It’s an eye-catching pair of chutes (or single chute depending on the year’s snowfall) that draws attention from every skier and snowboarder sitting on the Middle Bowl six-pack.
Lone Tree is accessible via a ride up Strawberry Gondola, a bootpack through the avalanche gate, and a quick traverse above SowBack and Strawberry Fields. Your best bet to reach the top of Lone Tree is to find a friendly local who can lead the way but be sure you are a capable and confident skier because this run is not for the faint of heart.