Whatever that means, the slopes rip and the Cliff lodge houses the world's largest collection of Oriental Rugs. Big Cottonwood Canyon, with its scenic access road past dramatic rock formations, houses Solitude and Brighton resorts. Brighton's rolling terrain makes it a favourite of families and snowboarders, while Solitude has a more European feel, with elegant hotels and restaurants at the resort base. Snowbasin, Powder Mountain and Nordic Valley are about an hour's drive north of Salt Lake City. Snowbasin, first skied in the 1940s, is being transformed by the Olympics from a sleepy locals' hill to an international standard ski area.
Nordic Valley is a quieter place with great snow, no crowds and no frills.
The unique desert terrain and ultra-dry snow make for memorable landscapes. Brian Head claims Utah's highest skiable peak at 11,307 feet, while Elk Meadows high alpine terrain makes a striking contrast to the nearby desert and is favoured by families. The resorts are just three hours drive from Las Vegas's McCarren International Airport. Don't stay put - move around For first time visitors, the best idea is to rent a car and split your holiday between a few centers. That way you'll be able to find the resort that best suits your skiing, your pocket and your style - there really is a great variety.