As a storm swept through Utah leaving lots of POW in its wake, we knew a ski day had arrived. Skiing with family can prove to be a bit challenging at times. After waking the kids, getting the gear loaded and feeding hungry stomachs, we were finally in the car headed to Deer Valley.
The storm was in full force and I have never seen snowflakes so big. Growing up here in Utah I have weathered many storms, but up until now, 3 inch snowflakes were only found in dreams. We were in awe at the beauty of it all. As we headed up the canyon, we saw cars off the road, semi-trucks jack-knifed and people turning back calling off their ski day. We questioned whether we should turn back or continue on our quest for POW. The quest for POW won by a landslide.
One of the best kept secrets of Deer Valley is the Gondola entrance by the Jordanelle dam. There is even a complimentary overnight ski storage available for the customers’ convenience. Hopping on the shuttle – which by the way is super helpful for families or individuals with lots of gear – we were ready to hit the slopes.
That first run or two is magical. The grooming perfection makes for the smoothest and most satisfying runs of the day as far as feel goes. It is like gliding across a sea of butter. Best feeling ever.
In search of powder we head straight over to the Mayflower lift. After a big storm, there are never many people here and the powder in the bowl is phenomenal. Lapping runs here is a great way to get your powder legs going. A couple of runs and the Beardski’s are already covered in snow.
We jump into Triangle Trees between Reward and Tycoon and buckle up for some of the best tree skiing around. Be sure not to miss Sons of Rattler trees between Reward and Rattler off of Wasatch lift. It is always a treat. The POW is just waiting to be skied. The boys love to jump off of the cabin roof on a good powder day, but as a mom, I don’t recommend it.
We head around to Sunset Glades. Find sunset glades where Homeward Bound and Sunset meet. We like to drop in off of homeward bound 50 feet left of and past the Sunset turnoff. This will eventually drop you out on Ontario.
When your legs are burning and ready for a break, do yourself a favor and stop at Empire lodge for lunch. The food is amazing and definitely a highlight. Grab a salmon salad or fish tacos to make your taste buds do a happy dance. Happy taste buds, happy kids. Happy kids, happy parents. Drop your wet gloves and gaiters by the fire to dry out while eating.
After enjoying a yummy lunch, our boys want to find more powder so we head out to Empire lift and the Daly Chutes. I like chute 10, but that’s not where we stop. We ski right past chute 10 and continue the traverse/hike until we come to a knoll that is full of powder. There is so much powder you can hear us letting out woo-hoo’s as we ski down. The boys are racing to see who gets the best tracks.
Face shots are in abundance in Lady Morgan bowl. Most people hop in off of Supreme and ski straight down to the trees. Do yourself a favor and traverse to the far side before starting down. Know that by doing this there is a short hike out, but it is totally worth it. (Not sure my youngest would agree with that statement).
I hope you enjoy skiing Deer Valley as much as we do. These suggestions are for advanced skiers only. If you have young kids or less advanced members of your group, leave a comment or reach out @joyofadventuring and I’ll send some suggestions your way.