In a somewhat surprising move, KSL and Aspen Skiing Company have purchased Deer Valley Resort. The mountain resort giants recently formed partnership has been gobbling up ski resorts throughout California and Colorado, but the acquisition of Deer Valley marks their first foray into Utah.
Though Park City’s Deer Valley Resort is smaller than much of KSL/Aspen’s inventory, they believe the move to Park City to be a natural one. With resorts in many major ski destinations across the US, and even two in Canada, KSL/Aspen looks to offer exceptional service no matter where winter sports enthusiasts choose to go in North America. But this move isn’t just good for KSL/Aspen; it’s a success for Deer Valley Resort and Park City residents as well.
As part of the KSL/Aspen network, Deer Valley Resort hopes to improve upon its current experience and offer guests an even more luxurious experience. Certainly, Deer Valley Resort—and by extension, Park City itself—is known for its quality powder, amenities, and abundance of varied ski runs, but an influx of capital from KSL/Aspen could push the resort to new heights.
What Does This Deal Mean for Park City?
Though already a popular winter vacation destination, joining the KSL/Aspen network should allow Deer Valley Resort to bring in an even larger number of visitors, in turn boosting Park City’s economy. This deal could lead to the resort’s expansion, though for now Solitude, purchased by Deer Valley in 2014, will remain in Deer Valley ownership’s control. Park City, put on the map by the Winter Olympics, could be in for a second awakening.
We at Park City Rental Properties are excited by the new deal and can’t wait to see how KSL/Aspen improves our already great resort. The deal for Deer Valley Resort should close before the 2017/18 season. If you’re considering a trip to Park City, this is a great time to come! For information about staying in beautiful Park City (and how to enjoy the new Deer Valley Resort), contact us at Park City Rental Properties today!
We have always said that the Park City resorts are some of the best. Our opinion has been validated by a recent SKI Magazine ranking of the best resorts in the western area of North America. Each of our three resorts were ranked higher than other Utah resorts.
Deer Valley received the highest rating and the top in the state and was rated No. 2. Park City was ranked at No. 7, while Canyons Resort received the No. 14 spot.
Now, of course, each of these three resorts have certain aspects and attributes that are more sought after than the others. Let’s take a look at some of the differences, and aspects that each offers.
Learn More About These Park City Resorts
Both Park City Mountain Resort and the Canyons offer both pros and cons for a rider looking for a wide-open freeride style experience. However, Deer Valley isn’t in the contention for the big mountain style experience. Additionally, Deer Valley doesn’t allow snowboarding, which can be either a pro or a con, depending on your liking.
Both Canyons and Park City Mountain resorts have terrain that can be considered “big mountain”, meaning areas, which are not groomed and have cliffs and rocks to maneuver around. Deer Valley only has one run — the Daly Chutes — that fits this description.
Now, PCMR offers easier access to this type of terrain because you can usually ride the same lift repeatedly to access the terrain. If you are not careful at the Canyons you may not end up on the terrain you want, and it can be a real pain to get back to places such as Ninety-Nine-Ninety.
Interestingly, with the merger of PCMR and the Canyons, the resulting ski area will have some of the best “big mountain” terrain in the United States.
Choose the Best Resort for Your Style of Skiing
While many skiers do want that big terrain experience, many others want a more relaxed, easy terrain. This is where Deer Valley shines! The amount of groomed runs is by far the highest among the three resorts. Skiers can enjoy the “corduroy” of ski runs when visiting Deer Valley. PCMR and the Canyons do have their share of grooming; however, Deer Valley always seems to come out on top for those skiers who are looking for a smooth ride.
If you want to know more about our area resorts and even get a local’s perspective, just ask one of the concierge staff at Park City Rental Properties. They can help you choose the best resort for your style of skiing!
About Jim Bizily
I am an outdoor enthusiast, parent of two awesome boys, and Property Manager in beautiful Park City, Utah. After years in engineering and entrepreneurial projects, I decided to move to Park City Utah to start a business managing lodging and vacation rentals.