From ice fishing at Bear Lake and exploring the fascinating Midway Ice Castles, to adventures in the state’s amazing national parks, these are the best things to do in Utah in winter.
If you’re looking for the ultimate Christmas or winter holiday destination, why not travel to beautiful Utah?
Utah is known for its amazing natural beauty. It was the home of the 2002 Winter Olympics and hosts the annual Sundance Film Festival too, but there’s so much more to this beautiful state.
In the winter months, Utah transforms into a wild and rugged winter wonderland that’s built for adventure! During this time, you can still experience the great outdoors, with a choice of exhilarating winter sports, fun holiday festivals and plenty of festive shopping!
So, are you ready to plan the ultimate winter holiday in Utah? This guide covers a range of activities and is packed full of travel tips. I’ll reveal all the best things to do in Utah in Winter as well as some great recommendations for where to stay, so you can really make it a trip to remember.
Updated for winter 2026–27: I’ve refreshed this guide with the latest Utah winter activities, ski resort information, seasonal events and practical tips, including important changes to Sundance Film Festival and the Midway Ice Castles.
Weather in Utah in Winter
Winter in Utah lasts from late November to February. Average daily temperatures during winter range from -11°C (12°F) to -1°C (30°F). During this time you can expect long periods of snowfall and shorter daylight hours. It varies considerably depending on where you travel. Northern Utah and the Wasatch Mountains are typically cold and snowy, creating excellent conditions for skiing, snowboarding and other winter sports.
Temperatures in Salt Lake City and the mountain resorts can regularly fall below freezing, particularly from December through February. In southern Utah, winter is generally milder, although snow and ice can still transform places such as Bryce Canyon into a spectacular winter landscape.
If you’re planning a Utah winter trip, pack plenty of warm layers, waterproof footwear and winter driving essentials, and always check local weather and road conditions before setting off.
The Best Things To Do in Utah in Winter
Visit one of Utah’s 5 amazing national parks
Utah’s national parks draw in huge crowds in the summer months, but numbers are reduced in the winter. What could be better than having a magical experience out in the red rock countryside, without the hoards of tourists?!
All five parks offer something different, from the towering cliffs of Zion to the snow-covered hoodoos of Bryce Canyon. Arches and Canyonlands can be particularly peaceful in the colder months, while Capitol Reef combines spectacular scenery with excellent winter hiking opportunities. Bryce Canyon is especially magical after snowfall, creating a striking contrast against its red rock formations.
Just bear in mind that winter conditions can affect roads, trails and facilities, so check the latest National Park Service updates before travelling and be prepared for changing weather.
There are so many amazing nature-filled places to see in Utah, you might find it hard to choose!
Enjoy Bryce Canyon Winter Festival
Taking place from February 13–15th 2027 the annual Bryce Canyon Winter Festival offers so much. There will be winter activities including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, fat biking, ski clinics, crafts, photography and family-friendly events. It’s really popular with families, as there are so many activities for kids.
Also, if you’ve got a competitive spirit, you could enter the ski archery competition or one of the Cross Country ski races.
Explore the Ice Castles
Update: The famous Midway Ice Castles have become one of Utah’s most talked-about winter attractions, but their Utah operation has been subject to changing weather conditions and seasonal pauses. The attraction did not operate in Utah during the 2025–26 winter, so check the official Ice Castles website before planning your trip around it.
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Utah that the whole family will love, visit the Ice Castles. This award-winning, frozen attraction where you can explore hand carved ice castles, playgrounds and ice sculptures.
You’ll discover magic around every icy corner! After your visit, you can warm up with some complimentary hot chocolate and warm drinks. It’s the perfect place to get in the festive spirit!
Ski or snowboard at one of Utah’s incredible ski resorts
Utah is famous for its legendary powder snow, making skiing and snowboarding some of the best things to do in Utah in winter. With 15 ski resorts across the state, there are plenty of options for beginners and experienced skiers alike.
The Wasatch Mountains are home to popular resorts including Park City Mountain, Deer Valley, Alta, Snowbird, Brighton and Solitude. For the 2026–27 season, Park City Mountain is currently anticipating an opening date of November 20, 2026, conditions permitting. Whether you want challenging slopes, family-friendly runs or a luxury ski experience, Utah has a resort to suit every type of winter traveller. Here’s a quick overview:
| Ski Resort | Best for |
|---|---|
| Park City Mountain | Huge terrain & convenience |
| Deer Valley | Luxury & groomed skiing |
| Alta | Powder & serious skiers |
| Snowbird | Advanced skiing & snow |
| Brighton | Families & night skiing |
| Solitude | A quieter mountain experience |
| Snowbasin | Wide-open terrain |
| Brian Head | Southern Utah & families |
Visit the fascinating Homestead Crater
Did you know there’s a hidden underground cave about an hour outside of Salt Lake City called the Homestead Crater. It’s a geothermal hot spring right inside a 55-foot dome of limestone rock! Imagine swimming in warm geothermal water while snow covers the landscape outside. How cool is that?
Temperatures inside the crater are 90-96 degrees Fahrenheit all year-round, meaning you can even visit in winter. Activities at the Homestead Crater include swimming, snorkelling, mineral soaks and SUP yoga.
Relax at one of Utah’s best spas
Looking for things to do in Utah in winter that are indoors? If you need a break from the chilly winter weather, how about booking in for a relaxing day at one of Utah’s best spas.
Amangiri is often considered Utah’s most luxurious spa and it’s located in a beautiful and secluded setting. Alternatively, if you’re staying in Salt Lake City, The Grand America Hotel’s spa is the best option for relaxing spa treatments.
Enjoy the Last Hurrah in Salt Lake City
Looking for New Year’s Eve plans in Utah? Head to Salt Lake City for the Last Hurrah! This annual celebration kicks off from 8pm. ?There will be live music, performers and DJs, food and drink, plus amazing fireworks at midnight! The best part? It’s free to go!
Go ice fishing or sledding at Bear Lake
If you’re looking for a unique winter activity that even the kids will enjoy, try ice fishing at Bear Lake! Anglers come from many miles away to enjoy the fishing opportunities all around the Bear Lake Valley.
Even if fishing isn’t your thing, the beautiful countryside surrounding Bear Lake is filled with other fun winter activities. You could try skiing and snowboarding at Beaver Mountain, or sledding and tubing at the Sinks.
Try a new winter sport like Snowmobiling
Did you know that Utah has more than 800 miles of groomed snowmobile trails each with their own sights, sounds and adventures?
The terrain ranges from powdery meadows to steep hills and mountains. If you’re new to snowmobiling, I’d recommend trying a guided tour. Backcountry Snowmobiling offers custom-tailored tours, ideal for anyone from snowmobiling beginners to expert on the snow!
Take a dog sled tour in Utah
Did you know that in Utah you can go dog sledding whilst helping a good cause? Bear Ridge Adventures provides warm and loving homes to former sled dogs that were once seen as “unadoptable”.
Now these dogs have a new lease on life and are helping provide authentic dog sled tours on scenic private property. It’s one of the ultimate winter activities in Utah. Visit Park City and experience Utah like never before by gliding over the snow in a dog sled!
Check out the Christmas lights at Temple Square
The holiday lights in Temple Square in Salt Lake City are turned on just after Thanksgiving, and wow do they add a sprinkle of magic to the place.
The entire square is lit up in a festive display of sparkling Christmas lights. There’s also an interactive Nativity scene and several concerts held throughout the holiday season.
Visit Park City, former home of the Sundance Film Festival
Park City is still one of the best places to visit in Utah in winter, though, thanks to its world-class skiing, charming historic Main Street and excellent après-ski scene.
For more than 40 years, Park City was synonymous with the Sundance Film Festival, attracting filmmakers, celebrities and movie fans every January. However, the 2026 festival was the final Sundance held in Utah. From 2027, the festival moves to Boulder, Colorado.
Where to Stay in Utah in Winter
Quick guide
- Park City: Best for skiing, après ski and restaurants.
- Salt Lake City: Best for city breaks and easy access to multiple ski resorts.
- Bryce Canyon: Best for combining winter scenery and national parks.
- Sundance: Best for a mountain retreat.
- St George: Best for warmer winter weather and exploring southern Utah.
Sundance Mountain Resort
This rustic yet sophisticated ski resort is located near the Wasatch Mountains, just 50km outside of Salt Lake City. A cool fact about this top hotel is that it was actually founded by Robert Redford!
If you visit in the winter months, you can take advantage of the nearby ski lifts. There are also lots of more fun things to try like cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and even horse-drawn sleigh rides!
The resort is situated on 5,000 beautiful acres of wilderness at the foot of the 12,000-foot Mount Timpanogos. You’ll find amenities such as three restaurants, an award-winning tea room and a luxurious spa. During the ski season, all rooms include 2 ski-lift tickets per night. You can also rent ski equipment on site.
Grand America Hotel
Planning your ultimate Utah winter itinerary? There’s no better place to stay than the Grand America Hotel! It’s located right in the heart of Salt Lake City.
The Gallivan Centre is just a short walk away and offers a festive outdoor skating rink. When the weather gets really chilly, you can warm up at other nearby attractions such as the Utah Museum of Natural History or the Hogle Zoo.
The Grand Hotel is “grand” in every way! You can expect luxurious touches including floor-to-ceiling windows, marble staircases, spa-style bathrooms, plush furniture and chic decor. On chilly winter nights, you can dine at the cosy Garden Cafe or enjoy cocktails at the fancy Lobby Lounge by the log fire.
Montage Deer Valley Resort
If you’re looking for an authentic and refined mountain retreat, you will love the Montage Deer Valley Resort! At Deer Valley, you can enjoy ski-in/ski-out access to one of North America’s best ski resorts. The hotel is also situated only 5 minutes from the iconic mountain town Park City and a 40-minute drive from Salt Lake City.
Deer Valley offers world-class luxury lodging in a beautiful mountain setting. If you’re new to skiing or snowboarding, the resort has an award-winning ski school on site. You’ll also enjoy complimentary amenities like curb-side ski valets, daily mountain tours and car service.
There are so many festive activities and fun winter events in Utah, it’s hard to narrow it down to a few! I hope you have an amazing trip, whatever you decide to do.
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