As a local skier, I’ve always thought of Solitude as Snowbird’s less-flashy little brother—he’s  content to stay out of the spotlight but rips just as hard. You won’t find as many of the aggressive die-hards you see over at the Bird; instead, it’s families, easygoing intermediates, and riders who’d rather savor a long cruiser than chase a record vertical. If the Wasatch resorts were a high school, Snowbird would be the popular jock, Brighton the wild child, Alta the serious scholar too focused on perfect turns to bother with gossip, and Solitude the quiet, soft-spoken kid who surprises everyone with natural talent and depth once you finally get to know him.

The typical Solitude rider isn’t there for the luxury skiing or fancy restaurants. They are the weekend warrior who flew in from the East Coast for a quick getaway. They are the 85-year-old who dons their 15 year old Pagaonia puffy for a few solid runs before heading home by lunch. They're the dad and daughter with new jackets zipped tight, ready to cruise greens and blues like it’s the Olympics. They are the college kids having the time of their life on the chairlifts and claiming their tumbles as technical descents.

Solitude is Utah's skiing melting pot of those looking for a good time on a friendly mountain without the hustle and stress. They aren’t there to impress. They are looking for good lines and a little Solitude.

For Beginners and Families 

I cut my teeth on a snowboard under the gleaming hum of Link and Moonbeam lifts. No judgment here, just gentle slopes. The inviting nature of Solitude draws a lot of first-timers and early intermediates who feel intimidated by the size and culture of the larger resorts. The resort has excellent beginner access throughout the mountain, with clearly marked routes and learning zones. 

For Intermediates 

This is where Solitude really shines. With 40% of the terrain rated as intermediate, blue runs can be found at almost every turn (but still, check the map). Eagle Express and Apex Lifts open into descents like Serenity and Dynamite, a groomer-lover's dream. The Sunrise lift gets you to long intermediate cruisers and spots to cut into trees. 

For Experts: Honeycomb Canyon 

If you are heading to Solitude after (or during) a fresh powder dump, take a moment now to appreciate how lucky you are. Then, head straight to Honeycomb Canyon. This 300-acre secret weapon of wide bowls and well-spaced trees will have you salivating. You can drop in through the gates at the top of Summit Express or through tight trees off the Powderhorn chairlift. Traverse skier’s left to access the bowl (where you can get a backcountry rush with fully patrolled peace of mind) or traverse skier's right for challenging tree turns.  

Honeycomb Grill 

The crown jewel of slopeside dining is Honeycomb Grill. It’s casual, contemporary and comfortable with wood-fired mains, floor-to-ceiling windows and big mountain views. It’s perfect for a warm-up lunch or early dinner steps from the lifts. 

The Thirsty Squirrel 

I’m going to let you in on a little secret. I spent years working in the ski industry—most of it at Brighton, Solitude’s uphill neighbor. When my shift ended and everyone else headed out for a pint, I’d sneak down the canyon to The Thirsty Squirrel, Solitude’s beloved après bar. 

I love the crew that gathers in this classic mountain pub, flowing with craft beers, wine, and cocktails in a laid-back space. The people who hang out at this resort don’t care about your skiing ability and don’t judge you based on your skill level. They are simply there to shoot the chutes and enjoy their time—and that energy is contagious. 

The Yurt 

A guided, lantern-lit snow walk to a multicourse dinner by the fire: arguably Utah’s most unforgettable on-mountain dining experience. Book early. This experience is available Thursday through Sunday during winter, plus holidays. 

Solitude doesn’t judge whether you’re on one board or two (Alta—I’m looking at you).  You will find a healthy mix of skiers and boarders, and the terrain variety means riders of all abilities can enjoy the same day. It’s a ride-all-day kind of place. Find corduroy for cruisers, steep tree shots and bumps for chargers, and rewarding pockets for those who work for it. Riders and skiers both love the mix of steeps, trees, moguls, and two terrain parks.

Try the Ski Super Pass

It’s valid at Alta, Brighton, Snowbird, and Solitude, includes UTA Ski Bus fare, and can be used any day within a 14-day window once activated. It’s the easiest, best-value way to sample multiple mountains from one home base. 

Know the Parking Rules  

For Winter 2025–26, Solitude requires parking reservations on Fri-Sun and holidays until 11:00 a.m., non-reserved paid parking from 11:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m., then free parking after. Weekdays are free. Plan ahead or ride the UTA ski bus, free with the Super Pass. 

Check out the Solitude Village 

Head to this slopeside stay and you can go from bed to lifts in minutes. You can skip the canyon ride up the mountains and après until close at the Thirsty Squirrel. The resort has a heated pool, hot tubs, saunas, a theater with nightly movies, and a game room. Oh, and did I mention that there’s a spa?  

Solitude offers something that you don't often find at headline-grabbing resorts: actual solitude. So, while tourists stand in line at the popular resorts, you can glide onto empty chairs at this hidden gem and do what you came here to do—ski. Get ready to experience Solitude Mountain Resort this winter. The mountain is waiting.