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Park City Vs Snowbird Skiing (Compared!)

Park City Vs Snowbird Skiing

Skiing in Utah is a favorite pastime of many. And the great state of Utah offers a large variety of ski resorts to choose from. But when it comes down to it, everyone knows the real battle is between Park City and Snowbird.

Here, we are not going to choose a winner. After all, different strokes for different folks!

But we WILL compare these two resorts so that you can decide which one is going to offer you the most bang for your buck. And unlike the other long comparisons, we will keep this one short and sweet.

Park City Vs Snowbird

The main difference between Park City and Snowbird is that Park city is larger and more of a family-friendly resort. It offers some easy runs, a lot of lifts, as well as plenty of activities like zip-lining, snowmobiling, and more! It’s also closer to the city and has some great restaurants.

On the other hand, Snowbird is known for its steep runs and deep powder. It offers a more advanced skiing experience and is popular among experts. It’s also cheaper and less crowded.

snowbird vs parkcity

Also read our comparison of Park city vs Breckenridge

Let’s take a look at both resorts in greater detail:

Size and Skiable Area

Size-wise, no other ski resort can top Park City. With over 7,300 acres of skiable terrain, there’s something for everyone here, from the total beginner to the seasoned expert.

Snowbird is a great choice too, especially for experts, with over 2,500 acres of skiable area and plenty of challenging slopes.

Terrain

Park City boasts over 300 ski runs on seven terrain parks, encompassing every type of terrain from beginner to expert.

On the other hand, Snowbird has only one terrain and about 169 trails.

Sure, they may have fewer trails than Park City, but Snowbird offers some of the world’s most challenging skiing with its steep canyons and glades.

Lift Systems

Park City has an impressive lift system, with 41 total lifts, including four gondolas, six high speed six packs, and nine high-speed quads.

Snowbird offers a respectable lift system, with 14 lifts in total, including six high-speed quads. Sure, Snowbird might have fewer lifts, but you can still get up the mountain in a hurry, considering the traffic-free slopes.

Lift Systems

And for those who don’t mind a slower ride, you can still make it up the mountain easily on Snowbird’s chairlifts.

Snow Quality

Both resorts offer some of the best powder around in terms of snow quality! However, Snowbird has been known to get a bit more natural snow than its neighbor to the south.

The base depth is usually much deeper at Snowbird as well, providing many more weeks of excellent skiing throughout the season.

So if you’re looking for a resort that offers deep, fluffy snow all winter long, Snowbird is the place to be.

Also read our comparison of Snowbasin vs Park city

Most Snowfall

When it comes to snowfall, Snowbird receives the most snow out of the two resorts. Snowbird has an average annual snowfall of 414″, while Park City gets around 249″ of snow per year.

The mountain’s increased elevation allows for a larger amount of moisture in the air, resulting in exceptional snowfall.

Most Snowfall

Of course, this also means that the mountain is windier and colder than its neighbor, so be sure to bundle up before hitting the slopes.

Best for Beginners

If you are a beginner skier or snowboarder, Park city is the best option for you. The resort has only 8% of its runs rated as beginner level, while the majority of its runs are intermediate (41%!). 

However, considering the size of Park City, the resort still provides more beginner-level runs to practice on than other resorts in the area. Plus, the runs are less steep than Snowbird, making it a great place to learn.

Snowbird has 27% beginner and 38% intermediate runs, but it only has 169 runs.

Best for Intermediates

If you consider yourself an intermediate-level skier, Park City still tops the list. The resort offers 41% intermediate terrain for you to test your skills.

In addition, the terrain park is ideal for those who want to practice their tricks.

Best for Advanced And Expert Skiers

Advanced and expert skiers often choose Snowbird because of its steep terrain and multiple rock faces. However, Park City is also a great choice for experienced skiers.

With 51% of terrain dedicated to advanced and expert-level skiers, you’re sure to find plenty of challenging slopes in Park City.

Best for Advanced and Expert Skiers

Still, Snowbird should be your choice if you like more challenging runs, such as ski bowls, tree skiing, and alpine drops, as most of the tough terrain is located there.

So if you’re an advanced skier looking for more challenges, head over to Snowbird and show off your skills — or better yet, show off your lack of fear! You might even impress the locals with your daring jumps and daredevil stunts.

Longest Ski Season

Snowbird has a longer ski season on average. Its higher altitude allows for colder temperatures, resulting in more snowfall.

Snowbird’s ski season typically lasts from November to May, which means there is plenty of time to hit the slopes than Park City.

Also read our guide on skiing in Utah in march.

Crowds

When it comes to crowds, Park City gets the most. With more activities available in the area and more accommodations nearby, Park City can get quite busy and lively during the peak season.

On the other hand, Snowbird is usually a bit quieter due to its more remote location. If you need a break from the chaos of urban living, then Snowbird is the perfect getaway for you!

Villages And Dining Options

Park City is a paradise for food lovers, with an array of restaurants, bars, and cafes to satisfy any palate.

But if you’re looking for an authentically charming village experience, then Snowbird might be the place for you. Its appealing little shops and restaurants make it a suitable spot for a romantic dinner or even a casual stroll.

However, if you are a family looking for a more lively atmosphere, Park City is probably the best bet. With its bustling nightlife and a plethora of shops available in the two main villages, it’s sure to provide something for everyone.

Accommodation

Snowbird might be your best bet if the budget is an issue. Snowbird has fewer accommodation options than Park City but is much more affordable.

On the other hand, if you expect a luxury experience, Park City is the best, as it has five-star hotels and plenty of world-class restaurants.

Cheapest Resort

Considering the cost of lift tickets, equipment rental, accommodation, dining, and other expenses, Snowbird is the most affordable option of the two resorts. Despite the cheaper price tag, there is plenty of thrills and excitement at Snowbird.

Also read our guide on Best Family Ski Resorts

On the other hand, Park City is a bit costly, but you get what you pay for. There are also plenty of other activities to enjoy, such as tubing, snowmobiling, and areas designated for sledding.

Verdict

Park City and Snowbird are both great options for an enjoyable ski trip. Park City offers the best overall ski experience with its wide variety of terrain and activities.

Meanwhile, Snowbird is known for having some of the best snow in the region and access to challenging terrain that seasoned skiers and snowboarders love.

The choice is yours! But if you’re looking for a more affordable skiing holiday, Snowbird may be the better option. So come on down and get ready to be amazed at the slopes!

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Lisa Hayden-Matthews

Lisa Hayden-Matthews

An avid Skier, bike rider, triathlon enthusiast, amateurish beach volleyball player and nature lover who has never lost a dare! I manage the overall Editorial section for the magazine here and occasionally chip in with my own nature photographs, when required.

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