Ski Resorts Hopeful As Winter Storm Moves Into Utah

SOLITUDE, Utah — Ski resorts were preparing for a busy weekend Friday as a storm approached that promised to be the largest of the season so far.

Forecasters had predicted up to 2 feet of new snow in resort areas by Saturday night.

By 3:30 p.m. Friday, Solitude Mountain Resort had already recorded 4 inches of fresh powder with snow continuing to accumulate into Friday night.

“It’s truly a winter wonderland,” said communications manager Sara Huey. “We love it when it comes down like this. I’ve been in a great mood all day, took some turns myself and I think tomorrow is going to be great.”

Until now, Solitude’s previous high this season for snowfall was 10 inches, which came in mid-December.

While the resort produces its own snow, Huey said conditions are always best when nature cooperates.

“It seems like we’ve been missing the cycles, missing the patterns,” Huey said. “I’m hopeful this is the first of many storms to hit Solitude.”

Huey cautioned with all the new snow that visitors should carefully obey all posted signs and to not duck ropes as crews mitigate any potential avalanche hazards.

“To do so could put them at risk as well as our patrol, which would be responsible for any rescue,” Huey said.