From shorter winters to less predictable snowfall, resorts are adapting in smart and sustainable ways to ensure future generations can enjoy snow sports and the mountains. Here's a look at five things Utah's iconic ski resorts are doing adapt to the changing climate.
1. Smarter Snowmaking - Deer Valley Resort & Eagle Point
Deer Valley Resort and Eagle Point are investing in next-generation snowmaking systems. Deer Valley is automating snow guns and integrating SnowSat technology to accurately measure snow depth and optimize snow placement. This reduces water and energy waste while improving coverage. Similarly, Eagle Point built a new snowmaking pond, added miles of pipeline, and installed snow guns to better cover south-facing terrain several years ago. These upgrades have improved snow coverage on their mountain and snow operations the past five years.
2. Regenerative Land & Forest Management - Alta Ski Area
The Alta Environmental Center (AEC) leads a variety of resilience-focused projects. From restoring wetlands, to removing invasive species, reforestation and planting native plants, Alta is preparing for the possibility of less natural snowfall while improving the health of its watershed and forests. By the numbers:
- Three restored wetland sites in Albion Basin
- 42,000 trees planted since 1991
- 109,700 native plants planted since 1991
- 50 volunteers planted 800 Engelmann spruce seedlings in Fall 2024
Volunteer-driven education and reforestation programs also keep skiers and the broader community engaged in climate stewardship.
3. Renewable Energy & Eco-Friendly Design - Woodward Park City
Woodward Park City integrates sustainability into every facet of its operations. They power their facilities with solar, use low-energy snow guns, and build with recycled, carbon-neutral materials. Their zero-waste goals are supported by composting, recycling, and nearly eliminating single-use plastics. Woodward's "Play Forever" campaign reflects a long-term commitment to environmental and community health.
4. Sustainable Art & Plastic-Free Culture - Sundance Mountain Resort
Sundance Mountain Resort has long been a leader in low-impact tourism. The resort turns recycled glass into art through with it's on-site glass blowing artists and has eliminated single-use plastic water bottles througout the resort. They also follow a Green Building Policy, which guides all of their new development and remodeling projects on site. Examples include:
- The Sundance Spa contains environmentally responsible building products such as low volatile organic compound (VOC) paint, water saving devices, and energy efficient lighting and heating.
- The Redford Conference Center has geothermal heating and cooling, LED or flourescent lighting, wood finishes from reclaimed materials like barn wood, and the staining was done with 70 pounds of coffee grounds and 70 gallons of coffee (instead of traditional stain).
Rooted in a philosophy that celebrates nature, art, and recreation, Sundance's practices are an example of how resorts can align sustainability with brand identity.
5. Transportation Innovations - Solitude Mountain Resort
Recognizing that guest travel contributes heavilty to emissions, Solitude Mountain Resort has prioritized transportation solutions. Initiatives include expanded shuttle service, parking management systems, and communication strategies to reduce peak-day traffic. A multi-pronged approach with parking reservations, carpool discounts, and public and employee transportation have resulted in a significant environmental impact with fewer CO2 emissions. By the numbers:
- 98,000 UTA Ski Bus rides reduced CO2 emissions by 507,780 pounds.
- 19,000 employee rides reduced CO2 emissions by 98,800 pounds.
- Reducing the number of cars turned around at the entrance from 500 per high-demand day to essentially zero prevented 403,000 pounds of CO2 from entering the atmostphere.
In addition to cutting down carbon from car trips to the mountain, these efforts also enhance the overall guest experience.
From eco-friendly infrastructure, smarter snow systems and transportation changes, Utah resorts are innovating to stay ahead of climate challenges. As Utah resorts continue to lead in their sustainability efforts, these adjustments ensure there's a future worth skiing towards. Learn more about sustainability here.
