Spring Skiing at Snowbird

Snowbird’s Iconic Tram

You know what’s great about sore legs? Afterward—once they’re no longer sore—they feel strong and toned.

That’s how mine are feeling today and I’m loving it. I had quite the workout over the weekend, maybe the biggest of the season. It’s no wonder. I met up with my oldest brother, Frank, and skied with him, some of his buddies and my hunny for two days in Snowbird, Utah. With them, I pushed the limits of my comfort zone on one of the best mountains in the West. And what an initiation it was into the big leagues. These guys don’t mess around.

Mineral Basin: One of Our Favorite Spots on the Mountain—Just Like Skiing on a Glacier in the Alps

Steve and Me on Our Last Day of the Ski Season at Snowbird

I had heard about Snowbird, Utah for years, mostly from Frank who goes there nearly every year. I was eager to discover it, especially since most of the ski resorts in Colorado have ended their seasons. I love spring skiing in April once Telluride has closed and normally meet up with another brother, David, and his wife, Geri, in Aspen. Or I head to Vail. Although this year I was smart to pick Snowbird since this extraordinary mountain still boasts a near ninety inch base.

And whoa, what snow! We didn’t see a single bare spot. They have enough to push around until well into May. “Continuing our tradition of offering the longest ski season in Utah, Snowbird is prepared to stay open for skiing and snowboarding as long as the snowpack permits,” says Dave Fields, V.P. of Resort Operations.

So that’s why I received no definitive answer about the official closing date of Snowbird—they just stay open as long as the snow holds up. “It’s a real skiers’ mountain,” says Ira, one of Frank’s oldest friends that moved to Utah decades ago. “It’s more of a ski area, than a ski resort,” adds another local. Certainly one of the best in the country with terrain that makes the most ardent skiers salivate.

The Dudes at Après-Ski: Steve, Ira and Frank

Since it’s spring, only the most enthusiastic and fun-loving skiers and boarders need apply. On any given day, the conditions can vary as much as the parade of rainbow-colored attire and silly costumes that brighten the slopes during this festive scene. The window of great skiing is reduced, yet that just leaves more time to party (which takes place at the Plaza Deck with live music weekends from 2 to 5 p.m.). Keep in mind that the snow can change from hard-packed to mashed potatoes sometimes within an hour, especially if you’re not on a north-facing slope. A good skier can enjoy skiing all of this and if you’re lucky enough, you’ll find some sweet corn in between.

Boy, am I glad I finally shook off my end-of-season fatigue to play with the big guys. Now I’m finally ready to put away my skis.

Here’s a great restaurant recommendation:  Log Haven Restaurant, 6451 E. Millcreek Canyon Road, Salt Lake City; 801-272-8255.

Around the Fire at Log Haven: A Great Place for a Drink Before Your Memorable Meal

Rack of Lamb: One of Many Exceptional Dishes Served

Our large group of ski aficionados regaled in an elegant meal at Log Haven Restaurant, a fine establishment restaurant nestled in Millcreek Canyon, just a short scenic drive from the slopes. If you’re headed anywhere near Salt Lake, this place is a must! It was also fun trading ski stories with Frank and his dear friends, all of whom possess a fifty plus year-old passion about skiing. A special nod to Mike Bisner who was part of the group. Mike introduced my family to skiing in the West some forty years ago, a big event that forever changed our lives. Thanks, Mike!

How Log Haven Looks Once the Snow Melts