Although they are only about 45 minutes away from each other, Snowbird and Park City offer two very different experiences. Is one better than the other? It depends on who you ask! As Park City real estate agents, we certainly know where our heart lies. However, both resorts are popular for their own reasons.
If you’re on the fence about vacationing in Snowbird Vs. Park City, here are a few things you should consider:
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Getting to Snowbird Vs. Park City
One of the biggest differences between Park City and Snowbird is apparent even before you arrive. It’s all about how you get there.
Park City is one of the easiest towns to travel to. With direct access to multiple airports in the region, getting to Park City is often as simple as hopping off a plane, getting in your vehicle and cruising down the Interstate. The ride is pleasant, with rolling hills and gorgeous scenery. Additionally, as such a large roadway, it is rarely impeded by inclement weather, meaning you can quickly and safely reach your destination even if it’s a blizzard
On the other hand, getting up Little Cottonwood Canyon to Snowbird is a bit of a commute. The roads here are smaller, winding up the mountain. As a result, you might find the roads closed unexpectedly during snowstorms.
Snowbird is also more prone to avalanches thanks to its significant snowfall due to the Lake Effect. For these reasons, getting there can be hit or miss, while travelling to Park City is always a sure thing.
Flying to Park City? Find out where to find the closest public and private airports to Park City in this next post right here.
Interlodging Can Be a Pain—or Not!
With increased risk of avalanche comes increased risk of getting caught in an interlodging event. Interlodging is more common in areas like Snowbird and Alta. Roads are closed, and travel between lodges and buildings is restricted due to potential avalanches. These restrictions can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days and require skiers to stay inside.
Although interlodging is a safety precaution, it could pose a problem for some. If you were only planning on a quick getaway, an interlodging event could throw a wrench in your week as going out during one of these periods is against the law.
For others, an interlodging event could be seen as a chance to curl up and get cozy for a little while. In some cases, if an interlodging event occurs overnight and clears up the next day, skiers can enjoy some exclusivity on the slopes if the roads below remain closed. Locals call this a “country club day!”
How do Park City and Deer Valley compare to other ski destinations? Read these posts next to find out:
- Park City Vs. Breckenridge
- Park City Vs. Jackson Hole
- Deer Valley Vs. Vail, Colorado
- Deer Valley Vs. Aspen
Ski Conditions May Vary
We’ve already proven that scientifically, Park City has some of the best snow for skiing in the United States. At only 45 minutes away, you might think Snowbird’s ski conditions are more of the same.
That’s not the case! Snowbird gets a ton of snow every year—on average, 500 inches compared to Park City’s sub-300 inches each year. Snowbird’s ski season is also a bit longer than Park City’s. Some years, we’ve seen people hit the slopes as late as June. In Park City, our ski season is on its way out by mid-to-late April.
In terms of terrain, Snowbird is well-known for its advanced trails. Park City is better known for its varied terrain with a fairly equal number of Green, Blue, and Black runs. Snowbird, on the other hand, is better known as an elite expert hill with advanced trails and a distinct “backcountry” feel. If you’re an experienced skier looking for a challenge, you’ll find it here!
Skiing is more than a sport in Park City—it’s a lifestyle! Learn more about the best ski resorts in Park City and Deer Valley with these posts next:
Snowbird is famous for its iconic tram! Offering rides to the top of Hidden Peak in both summer and winter, the tram is a must-try!
Where to Stay in Park City Vs. Snowbird
Even if you’re not counting the luxury resorts at Deer Valley, Park City still has more to offer in terms of accommodations and lodging. The Lodge at Snowbird, The Inn at Snowbird, and The Cliff Lodge are the main places to stay in Snowbird.
Conversely, Park City and Deer Valley have a seemingly endless array of luxurious hotels and lodges.
You can read more about the local accommodations and lodging in Park City and Deer Valley with these posts:
- What are the Best Hotels in Deer Valley?
- What are the Best Private Ski Lounges in Park City and Deer Valley?
- The Ultimate Guide to Lodging in Deer Valley
Does Park City Have More Amenities than Snowbird?
At the end of the day, Park City is a community. It’s a town with a wide range of amenities, dining, and shopping. Snowbird is a purpose-driven elite ski experience. As a result, you’re likely to find more restaurants, more stores, and a greater variety of events and entertainment in Park City.
While Snowbird has a fantastic Oktoberfest every year, Park City comes out on top in this regard with numerous festivals and events happening all year long, including the world-famous Sundance Film Festival, Savor the Summit, the Deer Valley Summer Concert Series, several arts festivals, and in 2034—the Winter Olympics!
We’ve written extensively about the best of the best in Park City and Deer Valley. If you’re looking for the most exciting ways to experience Park City and Deer Valley, read these posts. next!
- What are the Best Park City Golf Communities
- Best Date Nights in Park City
- What are the Best Spas in Park City and Deer Valley?
- What to Do in Park City if You Don’t Like Skiing
- Where are the Best Après-Ski Spots in Park City?
- What are the Best Hiking Trails in Park City?
- Is Park City Good for Mountain Biking?
The Verdict
At the end of the day, Park City is a fully-fledged resort town with a lot more to offer than skiing. Although Snowbird has its share of nice amenities—make sure you check out The Summit restaurant at the top of the mountain or the day spa at Cliff Lodge—it’s definitely more of a singular experience centered around skiing.
If you’re thinking about buying a vacation property in Park City or Deer Valley, we would be happy to help! Contact our team directly at 435-647-8035 or email us at info@CFHparkcity.com today.
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