Estimated read time: 5-6 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
Spring break is knocking at your door, and it's the perfect time to take that fun-filled family ski trip you've been dreaming about. If your plans include saving money, skipping long lines, and venturing out beyond the slopes, there are a couple of places you should keep in mind.
Two family-run ski resorts in Northern Utah are gaining traction as some of the best ski trip destinations if you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city slopes. First, there's Beaver Mountain Resort, just two hours north of Salt Lake City in Logan Canyon. Famous for its wide, groomed runs, family-friendly events and low prices, Beaver Mountain also happens to be the oldest continuously-owned family ski area in the country since opening in 1939. Given its rich history and hip atmosphere, you can count on getting in plenty of fun as well as your money's worth!
Nearby is Cherry Peak, Utah's newest ski area just 15 miles north of Logan. Since opening in 2014, Cache Valley locals and visitors alike have fallen in love with this 400-acre resort and all of its amenities, including night skiing. (There's much more to do than ski here.) Aside from access to that famous Utah powder, here are a few reasons why Beaver Mountain and Cherry Peak might top your list for a fun, quick family getaway.
Affordability
Cherry Peak is the ideal resort for young families who are hitting the slopes for the first time because of its $10 deal that allows you to ski all day on their beginner-level Magic Carpet run. If you need ski equipment, a lesson and a pass, it has one of Utah's best package deals, as well. For more seasoned skiers, a full day pass costs $45 for adults and $35 for "cherries" (children and students). You can also save a few bucks when you ski at night. Passes are available online or in-person at discounted rates.
Beaver Mountain offers a similar discounted deal for first-time skiers who want to stick to a beginner run all day. For just $15, the Surface Lift pass gives you access to The Little Eezy and The Big Eezy surface lifts from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Regular all-day adult passes cost $60 and $45 for ages 11 and under. (You can check out Beaver Mountain's website for special deals and pricing for seniors, military members and beginners.)
Unique features and amenities
Don't assume that being less crowded and more affordable means these slopes are any less fun! Both resorts offer a fair mix of beginner, intermediate and advanced terrain to suit all abilities, but they've got their own unique flavors that keep people coming back for more.
This year, Cherry Peak has opened more terrain than ever with the addition of its Summit Lift, and it has doubled its snowmaking capabilities. If your feet need a little break from the skis, you can take a load off and enjoy the snow tubing hill. Tubes and tickets for a family of four is $35 for the day ($5 for each additional person). If you're just going with a friend, the price drops to $20 for two people. Individual day passes are $11.
Keeping with its desire to provide an authentic ski experience, Beaver Mountain doesn't use artificial snow machines and doesn't need to. The resort averages more than 400 inches of fluffy powder per season — so you can rest assured that you're always skiing on the real deal.
Proximity to other outdoor recreation
Alluring as that powder may be, sometimes you might need a little break from carving up the mountainside. In that case, you can't go wrong with world-class snowmobiling, cross country skiing or ice fishing near each of these resorts.
Great local businesses
Hungry for a bite to eat? Hunting down a special souvenir as a memento of the best trip ever? You'll find plenty of dining and shopping options in the neighboring towns of Logan and Garden City.
With the growth of short-term rental properties, the Bear Lake area now has more accommodation options than ever. A multi-night stay gives you the chance to experience northern Utah's winter wonderland if you make a trip to Beaver Mountain for skiing, or stay in Logan and visit both resorts.
Stop in for the best sandwiches in Cache Valley at Logan's Heroes, and you can even try to "clean the sink" at Angie's restaurant ("Where the Locals Eat") by devouring a massive ice cream sundae. They'll give you a bumper sticker for bragging rights, so there's a good souvenir for you!
Year-round fun
Keep an eye on Cherry Peak's events calendar to stay on top of all the winter fun,e.g., Star Wars Night and the March Madness Slalom Race.
But the excitement doesn't stop when the snow melts. Be sure to come back for the Summer Concert Series. With an influx of Airbnb rentals in the area, Bear Lake has become a year-round destination for anyone seeking a refreshing retreat near Beaver Mountain.
Go before the secret gets out
Why wait to experience what could likely be your new favorite place in all of Utah? It's time to start planning that trip to these Northern Utah ski resorts today! For more ideas and inspiration, check out https://www.visitutah.com/winter.
Whether you like to ski or hike, 5 ways southern Utah's winters are perfect for nearly anyone
Boasting Utah's world-renowned snow, national parks and monuments, southern Utah has something for everyone this winter.
