3-Day Itinerary: Ski Under the Stars

Trade the daytime buzz for the quiet enchantment of night skiing in Northern Utah's Wasatch Mountains. This three-stop journey reveals the unique nighttime offerings of Brighton, Powder Mountain and Sundance, each nestled within distinct Northern Utah landscapes.

Picture this: you're high up in the mountains, the air crisp and utterly still. Beneath a starry expanse, the snow-covered terrain glows, casting long, silent shadows. There are few crowds, if any at all. Just the sounds of the wind in the trees, the snow crunching beneath your feet. This is night skiing in Northern Utah.

The state’s Wasatch Mountains are world-famous for daytime skiing, but few know of the tranquility of their nighttime slopes. Not to mention the enhanced visibility (thanks to well placed lighting) and affordability of tickets. This three-day itinerary will guide you through the logistics of night skiing at Brighton, Powder Mountain and Sundance Mountain Resort — providing tips on how to fill your days before heading for the powder at night.

This trip takes you through three distinct areas of Northern Utah, starting in Salt Lake City, heading north up to Ogden and then south toward Provo. This variety of geographic locations means you will see the best of what Northern Utah has to offer. Salt Lake City is the most bustling city in the state, with its downtown and airport less than an hour’s drive from 10 world-class ski resorts. Ogden is a mid-size, former railroad town steeped in Wild West history. Sundance is small, soulful and built for those who love nature without the crowds.

This itinerary could easily be stretched into a five-day itinerary, with relaxing evenings peppered in between ski days. And for those who enjoy the off-slope culture, there are plenty of cozy lodges or fires to curl up next to throughout the trip.

Day 1

Salt Lake City & Brighton

32 Miles

Morning - Explore Salt Lake City

Start your adventure with a leisurely morning in Salt Lake City and set the perfect tone for your trip. Plan your flight to arrive the night before, or even early in the day. The slopes will be waiting for you in the evening once you’re settled.

Get yourself ski-ready with breakfast at a local café. Salt Lake City is a fantastic destination for morning meal enthusiasts, offering a variety of choices from diners to bougie brunch spots. Choose from top-rated spots like Oasis Cafe for a quaint setting, The Park Cafe to eat like a local, or the Rose Establishment for elevated drink options and avo-toasts.

After breakfast, visit the Utah State Capitol and downtown Salt Lake City. Stroll around the Utah State Capitol, soak up Utah’s history and enjoy panoramic views of the Salt Lake Valley. On a clear day, you can see out to the Great Salt Lake, Antelope Island and sometimes even the Bonneville Salt Flats. The historic architecture of the building incorporates granite from the nearby mountains and world-class mirrored marble panels.

Following a trip to the Capitol, take a relaxing walk through City Creek Center and Temple Square, where you’ll find beautifully landscaped paths, iconic Salt Lake landmarks and great opportunities for photos. If you’re feeling peckish, stop by Eva’s Bakery for a fresh croissant or a pastry pick-me-up.

Following a stroll through City Creek and Temple Square, get your gift shopping on and browse unique, handcrafted goods at the Salt & Honey Market. After that, you can explore an immersive arts activity like Dreamscapes at The Gateway, an interactive experience that’s a short walk from Salt & Honey. You can also visit the Utah Museum of Fine Arts and soak up Western art, Utah creations and other pieces from around the world.

Evening - Night Skiing at Brighton

As the sun sets, make your way up Big Cottonwood Canyon to Brighton Ski Resort, where you’ll carve fresh tracks under the stars. Brighton boasts an impressive 200+ acres of illuminated terrain, offering some of the most expansive and well-lit night skiing in the state.

Best Runs for Night Skiing:

Thunder Road: A long, winding groomer that offers great flow and spectacular views of the Wasatch Mountains at night.
Majestic Terrain Park: Perfect for freestyle enthusiasts, featuring a variety of jumps and rails that stay open into the evening.

Cap off your night with an après visit to Molly Green’s, Brighton’s classic ski-in, ski-out lodge that offers hearty pub fare. It’s the ideal spot to unwind with a burger and a local craft beer before heading back to the city.

**Snowbasin Resort** | Courtesy of Snowbasin Resort

Day 2

Ogden & Powder Mountain

63 Miles

Morning - Discover Ogden’s Historic District

Following an overnight in Salt Lake City, get ready to head 35 miles north to Ogden, Utah. Home to three ski resorts, Nordic Valley, Powder Mountain and Snowbasin, Ogden’s rich railroad history and artsy culture stand out. Head up early and start your morning with breakfast and coffee at Daily Rise Coffee, a local favorite that offers house-roasted espresso, burritos, fresh pastries and incredible crepes to fuel the rest of your day.

After breakfast, get to know Ogden. Stroll Historic 25th Street, a once bustling (and infamous) railroad district. In the late 1800s, it was known for its speakeasies, brothels and bootlegging operations. But today, 25th Street is one of Utah’s most well-preserved historic streets and is now home to unique boutiques, art galleries and delicious local restaurants. Be sure to check out shops like The Queen Bee for artisan gifts or Gallery 25 for local artwork.

At the end of 25th Street stands Ogden’s Union Station. Its museums offer a deep dive into Ogden’s railroad and Wild West legacy. There’s even a world-class car museum with some rare items in the collection. The John M. Browning Firearms Museum is the only museum of its kind on planet Earth, featuring one of the largest collections of historic firearms ever curated and assembled.

If you have extra time, take a winter stroll along the Ogden River Parkway, where, if you’re lucky, you might spot local wildlife. For a more immersive nature experience, visit the Ogden Nature Center, a 152-acre preserve featuring scenic trails and educational exhibits. Adventurous hikers can opt for the Waterfall Canyon Trail, a short but rewarding trek leading to a stunning 200-foot frozen waterfall in winter.

Night Skiing at Powder Mountain

As evening sets in, head to Powder Mountain, known for its laid-back culture, uncrowded terrain and growing reputation as a creative hub. With a focus on blending outdoor adventure with art and innovation, the resort is evolving beyond just skiing. It is working to attract artists and musicians looking to connect in a mountain setting. While this resort is one of North America’s largest ski areas, night skiing offers a more intimate experience on select runs.

Unlike many other Utah resorts, Powder Mountain limits daily skier numbers, ensuring plenty of space to explore. Night skiing requires a reservation, so be sure to book in advance to guarantee your spot and enjoy the slopes from 3 to 9 p.m.

Best Runs for Night Skiing:

Sundown Lift Terrain: A smooth, well-groomed trail perfect for easygoing turns under the lights.
The Magic Carpet: This light tunnel beginner’s lift blends art, light and movement, designed to merge creative expression with night skiing. The immersive installation transforms the carpet into a glowing tunnel, where projected visuals shift and move with the contours of the snow.

After a night at Pow Mow, warm up at Roosters Brewing Co. or Table 25, both staples on 25th Street. Enjoy a handcrafted beer and a hearty post-ski meal, with menus featuring locally sourced ingredients and cozy mountain-town vibes.

Day 3

Sundance Mountain Resort

98 Miles

Morning - Scenic Drive & Provo Canyon Exploration

Before you leave Ogden, enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Mercantile, a historic eatery in Ogden’s old bus depot. Originally opened on November 28, 1940, as the Union Bus Depot, the building now housing The Mercantile later became a Greyhound station.

Travelers can choose between two scenic routes on their way to Sundance Mountain Resort. The Wasatch Back route offers rolling mountain views, Deer Creek Reservoir’s frozen beauty and a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience. The Wasatch Front route is more direct but allows for stops in Salt Lake City, Provo, or even a side trip to Antelope Island to see Utah’s famous bison herds.

Arriving at Sundance

Sundance provides an intimate, peaceful night skiing experience unlike any other. The resort was founded by actor, director and activist Robert Redford. Here, you won’t find massive crowds or high-speed lifts — just beautifully lit slopes, quiet surroundings and a sense of connection to the landscape. (Read: Robert Redford Sets the Sundance Scene)

Before hitting the slopes, explore Sundance’s one-of-a-kind art studio. Here, you can create pottery, jewelry, or paintings inspired by the mountain surroundings. The resort even has a glass gallery that utilizes recycled products from the resort.

Before a night of skiing, enjoy a warm and satisfying meal at one of these top dining spots:

The Tree Room (Sundance): If you’re looking for an elegant, fine-dining experience, The Tree Room delivers with locally sourced ingredients, a candlelit ambiance and an intimate mountain setting. Named after the actual tree that grows through the dining area, this restaurant embodies rustic luxury and artistic charm.
Foundry Grill (Sundance): A great option for those wanting a hearty yet casual meal, Foundry Grill offers mountain-inspired dishes, fresh seasonal ingredients and an inviting, lodge-like atmosphere. The wood-fired entrees are particularly popular, making it an excellent choice for fueling up before hitting the slopes.
Back 40 Ranch House Grill (Heber City): This farm-to-table favorite is known for its freshly sourced meats and produce, offering a true taste of Utah’s mountain cuisine. With stunning views of the surrounding peaks, it’s a great choice if you’re passing through Heber City before heading to Sundance.

Night Skiing at Sundance Mountain Resort

Night skiing at Sundance offers several well-groomed trails, ideal for carving beneath the stars. With night skiing on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday nights, the mountain’s layout curates a tranquil experience. It allows skiers to enjoy the solitude and beauty of the Wasatch Range at night.

Best Runs for Night Skiing:

Bear Claw Run: A winding trail that offers gentle, flowing turns through snow-covered pines. The lighting on this run is particularly scenic, creating a glowing winter wonderland effect.
Stampede: A moderate intermediate run that’s great for those who love a rhythmic descent. It’s a great warm-up for more technical runs later in the evening.
Top Gun: One of the most breathtaking runs at Sundance, Top Gun offers views of the Wasatch Mountains illuminated under the night sky. It’s a favorite for those who enjoy a bit of challenge with a spectacular backdrop.

Cap off your final night in Utah with a cozy drink at The Owl Bar, a restored 1890s saloon once frequented by outlaw Butch Cassidy. Boasting a log-cabin aesthetic, the Owl Bar offers craft cocktails and occasional live music, making it the perfect place to wrap up and toast to an unforgettable ski trip.

Tips for Success

For those inspired to plan their night skiing getaway, be sure to:

Reserve lift tickets in advance where possible.
Dress warmly and be prepared to buy or rent the proper gear, planning for flexibility based on weather conditions. (Read: How To Choose Ski Rentals for Utah's Snow)
Be prepared for snowy weather. Not all rental cars are created equal. It is a good idea to rent a car that is equipped with four-wheel drive, snow tires and high clearance.
Come back again during a different time of year to see how the mountains change. Whether it’s summer hiking and fly fishing, fall foliage drives or another winter ski adventure, this corner of the country is worth visiting again. And again, and again.
Read: How To Prepare for a Utah Ski Trip