Ogden has long been known as a lawless frontier town. What started out as a modest Mormon settlement in the 1850s eventually became a bumping boom town along the Transcontinental Railroad, opening up Ogden to all sorts of characters with a sense of adventure, and earning it the nickname “Junction City.” Al Capone was once overheard saying that Ogden was too wild even for his standards.
Fast-forward to the present day and Ogden continues to delight visitors with its old world charm and first-class winter sports. Perhaps the best way to appreciate Ogden’s rebellious history is by strolling Historic 25th Street, also known as H25.
Once home to brothels, political scandals, and the “dark ages” of gang rivalries so intense you couldn’t walk the three-block length in safety, 25th Street is definitely not to be missed.
Beyond its storied past, Ogden is also a premiere winter sport destination, with slopes rivaling those of Aspen and Park City, but without the long lift lines. The real difference, however, is a winter vacation in Ogden won’t break the bank and you’ll actually have money left over for Christmas gifts. As an added bonus you won’t. With three award-winning ski resorts 20 minutes from downtown and 450 inches of powdery snow each season, there is plenty to keep the whole family busy. Here are three excellent options to choose from:
Located less than an hour’s drive from Salt Lake City, Snowbasin Resort offers unparalleled skiing and luxurious day lodges. Snowbasin has over 3,000 acres of award-winning ski runs for beginners, intermediate, advanced, and expert skiers. When hunger strikes there are several dining options to choose from, like the famous Sunday brunch at Needles Lodge– a breathtaking mountaintop meal 9,000 feet high overlooking Ogden Valley.
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This 8,000+-acre resort is an epic winter wonderland and the largest ski resort the US. The sheer size of it means you won’t have crowded lifts or slopes to contend with. With trails ranging from easy, challenging, to black diamond, and double black diamond, Powder Mountain offers adventure for every skill level. Powder Mountain also offers unique experiences like guided sunset snowcat skiing to the most pristine backcountry powder only accessible by snowcat vehicles.
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Nordic Valley has the most affordable season passes in Utah (just $450 per adult age 27-64). Plus, it’s the perfect place to bring the kids to learn how to ski. The Nordic Valley Resort’s Ski & Board School offers first-timer and refresher courses for skiing and snowboarding. The resort also boasts the opportunity for night skiing.
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If you’ve been considering a winter vacation for 2016 that won’t break the bank, Ogden may just be the place for you. With hundreds of pristine manicured trails and a unique and gritty history, it’s no wonder why those who love skiing here also prefer to keep it a secret.
If you’ve vacationed in Ogden, or would like to know more, please leave us a question or comment below!
Brought to you by Visit Ogden.
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