Snowbird

Found in Little Cottonwood Canyon, 26 miles from Salt Lake City, Snowbird benefits from some of best snow in the world and this allows awesome advanced skiing in steeps loaded with deep powder. For intermediates there are some excellent shorter runs, while beginners learn quickly at the highly regarded ski school. For lower abilities this small domain may be lacking in quantity but it is certainly not lacking in quality. Boarders will also love Snowbird for its powder, park and half-pipe.

Although you can ski to your door, access to the runs by the main cable car, can get busy at peak times.

The resort itself caters for the luxury end of the market, but is modern and not about to win any 'Sights of Heaven' architectural awards. Good facilities are provided, but at fairly considerable cost. There are some decent places to eat, but only one (yes, one) on-mountain eatery. Evenings are generally quiet, with the skiing paramount. You can also ski at nearby Alta, which is reputed to have 'the best snow on earth'. Overall, Snowbird is a 'must visit' venue for experts and anyone who loves the deep white stuff.