Powder Magazine votes Deer Valley, Park City Mountain tops for intermediates

Photo: Deer Valley twilight

PARK CITY, Utah – Deer Valley Resort and Park City Mountain, have been named the top two resorts in the North America for intermediate skiers, according to a recent ranking by a Powder magazine.

The rankings highlight the resorts’ expansive selection of groomed blue runs, world-class amenities, and well-maintained terrain, making them ideal for skiers looking to refine their skills without venturing into overly challenging slopes.

No. 1 Deer Valley: Luxury and Pristine Grooming

Deer Valley has long been synonymous with upscale skiing, offering meticulously groomed trails and high-end skier services. Powder recognized the resort’s commitment to quality and its crowd control measures, which limit the number of lift tickets sold each day. Additionally, they said Deer Valley remains one of the few ski resorts in the United States that does not allow snowboarding, contributing to its reputation for smooth, skier-friendly terrain.

In an effort to enhance the skiing experience, Deer Valley has launched its “Expanded Excellence” initiative, adding 3,700 acres of new skiable terrain. This expansion will provide even more space for intermediate skiers to explore the resort’s renowned blue runs. Beyond the slopes, Powder called out Deer Valley’s  high-end dining and accommodations, including the luxurious Stein Eriksen Lodge. However, its premium offerings come with a higher price tag compared to other North American resorts, they said.

No. 2 Park City Mountain: Expansive Terrain for All Skill Levels

Park City Mountain also earned top marks for intermediate skiers, boasting 7,300 acres of skiable terrain—the largest lift-accessed ski area in the U.S. Powder said with approximately half of its terrain catering to beginner and intermediate skiers, and even some of Park City’s advanced runs being groomed, the resort provides a comfortable introduction for those looking to step up their skiing abilities.

Off the slopes, they said, Park City’s historic Main Street offers a vibrant après-ski scene, with an array of restaurants, bars, and boutique shops, including Kemo Sabe, known for its high-end Western apparel. While Park City offers a wide range of lodging and dining options, the magazine noted visitors should expect premium pricing for the resort-town experience.

In third was Sun Peaks Resort in British Columbia. For the full rankings click here.