Snowbird, aka "The Bird" is for serious skiers and boarders. This no frills resort is true to its roots as a haven for those seeking powder and steep, rugged terrain. The scenery is spectacular with 360º views of jagged peaks characteristic of the Alps. Hidden Peak (11,000 ft) is the highest lift accessible point in Utah. The light and airy snow is often supercharged by orographic lift or the "lake effect" phenomenon, courtesy of The Great Salt Lake. This, paired with the high elevation, arid climate, and consistent snow means Snowbird is perfectly positioned to receive boatloads of the "Greatest Snow on Earth." Fun Fact: You can find the exact same tram at St. Moritz and it was built in the late 60s by a team of Swiss engineers that spoke nearly no English. This iconic, Swiss-style aerial tramway carries about 100 passengers from the Snowbird Center base area to Hidden Peak in ~8 minutes. The Bird has one of the longest seasons in North America. Average annual snowfall totals 500+ inches and being located on partially on private land, Snowbird often remains open through May (note ski patrol does not perforom any avalanche mitigation in the Gad Valley after late April and it is considered backcountry terrain.)

Snowbird caters to Experts, though there are dedicated areas for beginners and early intermediates at Chickadee near the Snowbird Center and around the Baby Thunder lift (accessible via bubble tunnel from the Creekside Lodge). Intermediate terrain is limited and many Blues are either winding traverses or quite steep. Snowbird Center (the Main Base) has an institutional feel with limited, but high quality, lodging and dining options. There are four Snowbird lodges clustered around the base area, though The Cliff is the only option with ski-in-ski-out access. All are clean, comfortable and have good service (think, the Bandon Dunes of skiing). Snowbird offers 5 or 7 days on the Ikon Pass or 2 or 3 days on the Mountain Collective.