Image courtesy of Deer Valley Resort
Deer Valley Ski Resort, a world-renowned ski resort located 40 minutes from Salt Lake City Airport, is planning a major multi-phase expansion. The first phase is due to be completed in time for the 2025-26 ski season and will double the number of runs at Deer Valley. The full expansion will include the addition of 3,700 acres of new terrain, a new village at the base of the mountain, and a variety of new amenities for families. The new terrain will be located on the Mayflower Mountain, which is currently owned by Extell Development Company. The terrain will be a mix of beginner, intermediate, and advanced terrain, and it will be accessed by a new gondola.
Deer Valley is already a perennial favorite amongst ski families for a variety of reasons, both on and off-mountain. Current family highlights include:
Children's Ski School
The children's ski school at Deer Valley is one of the best in the country. The school offers lessons for children of all abilities and can accommodate children as young as 2 in their Intro to Skiing and Private Lesson programs. Instructors are friendly and knowledgeable to get your family members progressing quickly through the levels.
Childcare
Families with younger kids will rejoice that on-mountain childcare is available for children as young as 2 months. Play spaces are located both indoor and outdoor and full-day childcare includes lunch making planning for your little one's day a breeze.
Activities
There is no shortage of activities at Deer Valley and surrounding areas. Enjoy snowmobiling onsite or the mountain coaster at nearby Park City. If you are willing to adventure a bit further, Woodward offers a snow tubing facility and trampoline park that are worth a look. Older children could enjoy bobsledding at Utah's Olympic Park.
Lodging
Deer Valley really caters to families when it comes to accommodations. Many of the resort-sponsored lodging options are multi-bedroom units, some coming equipped with full kitchens, living areas, and dining rooms and appealing to families at different price points. Our personal favorite is Trails End Lodge for it's close proximity to Snow Park Lodge, complimentary breakfast and après ski spread, free in-town shuttle, and spacious accommodations.
Expansion
Adding to the current suite of amenities, the expansion project will add a new village at the base of the Mayflower Mountain and will include a variety of additional shops, restaurants, and hotels. The village will also have a new children's ski school, lodging, and a new mountain coaster.
New Terrain
Image courtesy of Deer Valley Resort
This expansion marks the largest increase of skiable terrain in Deer Valley's history, effectively doubling the size of the resort. Other notable highlights include:
16 new chairlifts, including a 10-passenger gondola
135 ski runs that will offer skiing for all abilities
Ski access across four new mountain peaks
One of the longest runs in the country, measuring just short of 5 miles
New terrain featuring numerous bowls and gladed areas
New Lodging
Adding to a great rolodex of existing accommodations, the expansion project will bring new lodging to the East Village area. This will be a welcomed addition, particularly during peak times when it can be hard to secure a room.
Image courtesy of World of Hyatt
Grand Hyatt Deer Valley
With a projected opening in late 2024, the Grand Hyatt Deer Valley will bring an element of luxury to the new East Village area. The family-friendly accommodation will offer 387 new guest rooms, additional suites and private residences, on-site dining and ski storage, an outdoor heated pool, kids club and more.
Conclusion
This expansion is sure to be a welcomed addition for families who are looking for a ski vacation that is both fun and relaxing. The new terrain will provide more opportunities for families to ski and snowboard together, and the new village will provide a comfortable place to stay. The new amenities will also make it easier for families to enjoy their vacation.
Overall, Deer Valley Ski Resort is a great choice for families who are looking for a luxurious and family-friendly ski vacation. The resort has something to offer everyone, from young to old, first-timer to expert. If you are planning a family vacation to Deer Valley, here are some additional things to keep in mind:
Deer Valley is a ski-only resort, so snowboarders in your group should look to ride at nearby Park City Mountain Resort
Book your accommodations early, especially if you are traveling during peak season
For travels later in the season, be sure to check out the promotional offers which typically include special promotion rates, discounted lift tickets, and more
Purchase your Ikon Pass or lift tickets in advance to save money
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, as food and drinks can be expensive at the resort
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