Snow
SNAPPED: Moose join skiers on Park City mountain slopes

A cow and calf moose were spotted on the slopes at PCMR. Photo: Rachel Hines
PARK CITY, Utah — Skiers at Park City Mountain Resort got an unexpected wildlife sighting this week when a pair of moose wandered onto resort ski runs, briefly sharing the slopes with riders.
Videos show two moose trotting across snow-covered terrain, unfazed by skiers passing at a distance. In a another clip from early January, a juvenile moose was spotted weaving through skiers at PCMR, prompting both awe and concern among onlookers as skiers followed the animal.
Moose sightings are not uncommon in Summit County, particularly during winter months when deep snow pushes wildlife to lower elevations in search of food. However, encounters on active ski runs remain rare and can pose serious safety risks. Another skier caught a video of a moose coming up to a ski run at Deer Valley Resort.
What to do if you see a moose while skiing
Wildlife officials consistently remind recreationists that moose, while often calm, are large, powerful animals that can become aggressive if they feel threatened or cornered.
Safety guidance for winter encounters mirrors advice given year-round:
- Give moose plenty of space. If you’re skiing or snowboarding, slow down and create as much distance as possible as you pass.
- Never approach for photos or video. A moose may appear docile, but sudden movements can trigger a charge.
- Use obstacles for protection. If a moose begins moving toward you, put a large object — such as a tree, fence, lift tower, or trail sign — between you and the animal.
- Avoid blocking escape routes. Moose are more likely to act defensively if they feel trapped.
Park City Mountain did not immediately report injuries related to the encounters. Resort officials typically work with wildlife agencies when animals enter ski terrain, sometimes temporarily closing runs to allow wildlife to move through safely.
For skiers and riders, the message is simple: enjoy the rare sighting from a distance, respect the animal’s space, and remember that even on groomed runs, Park City is still very much moose country.








