On a positive note, the legislators made one move that will likely help tourism in Utah and the ski industry overall. They passed a bill that will do away with "private" clubs and the stigma of needing a membership to enter some bars in the state. This does not mean bars and clubs won't require a cover charge -- which is fairly common across the United States. Click on the picture of the capitol for details on S.B. 187.

 

Sun lovers are out in force for spring skiing, but die-hard powder hounds have to look a little more closely to find a sweet ride in March and April. Maximum snow base for the year is usually measured in late March, but the trick is hitting the north-facing slopes. The snow base lasts longer on the highest and steepest north slopes.
 
Focus on the forecast. Clear skies help the steeps freeze overnight and soften during the day. Cloud cover keeps the warmth in at night, creating more slushy conditions. With cold winds, the slush turns to icy patches during the day. But, an overnight freeze followed by a warm, sunny day creates "corn snow" conditions - and some great skiing! Unfortunately, resorts close some trails in spring, restricting access to the best corn snow.
 
Although Utah is the warmest region of the Rockies, the Cottonwood Canyon resorts average 66 inches of new snow in April. Snowbird is a favorite for spring skiers as it is Utah's highest resort at 11,000 ft. and has plenty of north-facing slopes. The Peruvian chair mogul runs are known to be best in spring afternoons. Alta, Brighton, and Solitude are all open through most of April with a variety of exposures.