Must-See Panoramic Views at Utah Ski Resorts

Brian Head Resort

At Brian Head, visitors benefit from its close proximity to the snow-dusted red-rock hoodoos of Cedar Breaks National Monument, just 3 miles away. “It’s a spectacular view unlike one at any other ski resort,” says Thayer, with the iron oxides found in the rocks producing red, orange, and yellow colors (magnesium oxides account for the purple hues) that stand out from the blanket of white snow that’s nearly everywhere else.

On Giant Steps Mountain, take either the Giant Steps Express from the lodge or The Dunes (chair number 7) if you’re already on the mountain. When you get to the top, take a break to get a good, long look at the 2,000-foot-deep geologic amphitheater. On the way down, take any combination of intermediate or advanced trails — especially advanced skiers’ checklist runs Engens and Georg’s Rock Run — and ride right back up for more beautiful red-rock views at the top.

Watch the film “Skiing Utah’s Red Rock” about Brian Head Resort.

Sundance Mountain Resort

Thayer considers the beautiful views at Sundance “underrated for aesthetics,” and with its spot in 5,000 acres of protected wilderness at the base of 12,000-foot Mount Timpanogos, there are plenty of inspirational panoramas to take in during a visit.

Ride up Outlaw Express and then Red’s Lift for a sweeping 360-degree view of Heber and Utah Valleys, the ridgeline of Mount Timpanogos and the surrounding Wasatch Mountains. While you’re here, extend the visual enjoyment by taking a snack break at the Bearclaw Cabin, a log warming hut on Arrowhead Summit at 8,250 feet with a menu of tacos, burritos, nachos and drinks.

On the best days, a seat on the deck can’t be beat, and while you may struggle to leave the views for the trip down the mountain, you can come right back up for spectacular scenery that takes your breath away. Consider it a great incentive to do laps.

Watch Utah’s Sundance Resort as told by Robert Redford.

Beaver Mountain

The Beav is a favorite of folks who love sunny morning skiing, as the slopes have northeastern exposure, but Thayer says “it always seems to be snowing when I’m there.” For great views, take Harry’s Dream lift to the absolute top of the resort, at 8,860 feet. From there, routes down the mountain are available for all levels of skier, from green Gentle Ben to blue D-Street to a handful of black runs. But before you find your favorite path, stop at the summit and look east to Bear Lake and west across Northern Utah. Considering that there are only four lifts at Beaver Mountain, you’re likely to hit the top elevation a bunch of times during your visit here, so take advantage of the view every time — especially since it could easily be socked in and snowing, as with every one of Thayer’s snowy trips to Ski the Beav. 

Get to know Beaver Mountain.