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Deer Valley Ski Resort Profile |
Summary: When you go to the beach, you have the choice between the private villas on the ocean or the Holiday Inn across the street. When you ski, you also have choices in how you will spend your money, and Deer Valley is the exclusive, expensive, and full service resort. Deer Valley does what we wish so many resorts would do – limit the number of skiers per day. But how do you make up for the lost revenue by closing your doors upon reaching your max occupancy each morning? You have to charge the people who made it on to the mountain more. While prices at Deer Valley are higher than typical, though, they are still in the range (albeit at the top) of other pricier western resorts which don’t limit the number of skiers. Deer Valley is one of four major resorts which don’t allow snowboarders (that number will soon be three with Taos allowing boards later this season). That creates an ambience that is focused on the finer points of skiing – and when combined with the more exclusive feel of the resort, an atmosphere all its own. Great kids programs augment the great service, making Deer Valley an easy choice for our Top 20 list. Lodging Choices: Staying right at the Deer Valley resort rounds out the experience but can be expensive. In return for the cost, you get a full-service experience. For the budget minded who want to ski Deer Valley, the close proximity to Park City allow for a variety of lodging, as the area serves both (and other) resorts easily. Terrain / Highest Elevation / Vertical Drop: 2,000 acres / 9,600 feet / 3,000 feet Activities for Non-Skiers: Deer Valley is really a full-service resort, offering all of the trappings of any such destination. While the resort lacks any robust “ski village” like you may get in authentic ski towns, the close proximity to Park City (site of several 2002 Winter Olympic venues) offers plenty of shopping, dining, and nightlife. Ski School: In addition to a teen ski program, Deer Valley offers ski instruction for children ages 3-12. Children are divided into well-defined age groups. Cost is high, at $160 per day, but comes with Deer Valley quality and attention. Day Care: The most comprehensive child care we’ve seen, Deer Valley’s will take kids ages 2 months to 12 years. A high quality, structured day is provided. Cost is $96 per day. Getting there: From the Salt Lake City airport, you will be a 45 minute drive from Deer Valley, with nearly every major carrier serving the Salt Lake City airport with jet service. Insider Tip: Cheap eats, not found at Deer Valley, can be had by walking or riding to downtown Park City. Visit our forum for readers' opinions on this resort |