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A premier ski and snowboard destination

History of Snowbird Ski Resort

One of the world's most renowned winter sports spots

Snowbird Ski Resort is a premier ski and snowboard destination located in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah. The resort opened its doors for the first time in 1971 and has since become one of the world's most renowned winter sports spots. With an average annual snowfall of 500 inches, Snowbird offers some of the world's best conditions for skiing and snowboarding.

The Snowbird Ski Resort has two distinct areas: the Peruvian Gulch and Mineral Basin. The Peruvian Gulch is a beginner-friendly ski area with gentle slopes, wide open runs, and plenty of glades to explore. There are nine chairlifts that provide access to more than 1,200 acres of terrain. Mineral Basin is home to the resort's steepest and most challenging runs. The adjacent Snowbird Backcountry provides an additional 1,300 acres of expert skiing and snowboarding terrain.

Emma Mine

The area that would eventually become Snowbird Ski Resort has a long and storied history. In 1869, prospectors discovered silver in Little Cottonwood Canyon and discovered the Emma Mine. Over the next 70 years, miners extracted thousands of tons of ore from the canyon before the mine was abandoned in 1941. Emma Mine remains an iconic landmark at the resort, and its rustic buildings remain a popular attraction for skiers and snowboarders. Visitors to Snowbird can still explore the mine's tunnels and experience what mining life was like during the late 1800s and early 1900s. The Emma Mine is a reminder of Snowbird's long history and is an important part of its identity today.

Early History

Snowbird has a rich history, beginning with its opening in 1971. The original founders, Dick Bass and Ted Johnson, had a vision of creating the ultimate winter escape for skiers and snowboarders. Through hard work and dedication, they succeeded in building one of the most iconic ski resorts in the world.

In 1981, Snowbird expanded, adding a base lodge and two new chairlifts to its terrain. With more lifts came more runs, and by the mid-1980s, Snowbird had become one of the premier ski resorts in North America.

Snowbird Ski Resort Through The Years

Since its inception, Snowbird has continued to expand and evolve. In the 1990s, snowmaking improvements were made that allowed for consistent snow conditions throughout the winter. The resort also added a high-speed quad lift in 1999, allowing skiers and riders to access terrain faster than ever before.

In 1971, Snowbird opened Aerial Tram, which soon became one of the most iconic sights in Little Cottonwood Canyon. The aerial tram provides breathtaking views and access to some of the best terrain on the mountain. It was also the first five-person tram in North America, allowing friends and family to explore Snowbird with ease.

Snowbird Ski Resort Today

Today, more than 50 years after its opening, Snowbird has become a premier destination for skiers and snowboarders from around the world. With more than 2,500 acres of terrain to explore, there's something for everyone at Snowbird. Whether you're just starting out or an expert trying to find your next challenge, you'll find it here.

Snowbird Ski Resort is a place where the passion for skiing and snowboarding meets the spirit of adventure. It's a place to challenge yourself, explore new things, and share stories with friends old and new.

From its humble beginnings in 1971 to its current status as one of the most renowned ski resorts in the world, Snowbird Ski Resort has earned its place as an iconic symbol of Utah's winter sports culture. With a commitment to excellence and unparalleled access to terrain, it's no surprise that Snowbird continues to attract skiers and riders of all levels from around the globe each season. Whether you're just getting started or are a seasoned pro, Snowbird Ski Resort is sure to provide an unforgettable experience. There are few places as magical as Snowbird—come see it for yourself!
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