Creating differentiation is a challenge in any industry, whether it’s cars, technology, or in this case: skiing. In order to be a leader, for example a Tesla or an Apple, doing things better than your peers sets you apart. When Deer Valley says “Ski the Difference,” they mean it – and back it up. From impeccable grooming to incredible food, guests can expect an experience a cut above other resort options, including customer service that is truly on another level. Here are a few tips to take advantage of Deer Valley’s exceptional guest service options: 

TOUR THE MOUNTAIN

We’ve all been there – trying to learn the layout of a ski resort can be challenging. While memorizing lift names and knowing which runs lead to Silver Lake versus Snow Park is a smart start, it can take some time to get it down. Deer Valley boasts an impressive 21 chairlifts and 103 runs, which takes some time to navigate effectively. Wouldn’t it be nice to get a tour of the resort from people who know the mountain really well? Well, yes it would, and this is made possible with the Deer Valley Mountain Host Tours. 

The friendly mountain hosts not only help guests learn about the resort’s terrain, but also the rich mining history of the area, as well as imparting a bit of trivia to show off over après drinks. These local experts will introduce new runs and routes, and of course, a few secret powder stashes. 

Tours are offered four times per day from the top of Carpenter Express and Homestake Express chairlifts, at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. for intermediate skiers, and 9:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. for expert skiers. Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early, as tour capacity is limited. 

PARKING SHUTTLE

Getting from car to chairlift is a breeze with the parking shuttles. While early birds snag the closest spots in Lot 1, even those of us self-admitted slower morning types who pull into the back of the lot can avoid taking more than a few steps in their boots. Every few minutes, complimentary shuttles cruise by on the west side of the parking lot and whisk skiers to Snow Park Lodge. A quick walk through the lodge and a few stairs lead to the bases of Carpenter Express and Silver Lake Express chairlifts. 

SKI AND GEAR STORAGE

If those boots are not “made for walking,” because let’s face it, ski boots are made to be attached to skis and not run errands, Deer Valley has you covered. Curbside ski drop-off at Snow Park Lodge makes it easy and convenient to drop skis, boots, poles and members of your group off at the lodge, meaning only one person needs to park and take the shuttle back to the lodge to boot up. Look for someone in a green Deer Valley jacket to help you unload skis and other gear. The locker room to gear up in is located on the lower level of Snow Park Lodge.

Skiing with a group or large family is a lot of fun, but can also be a challenge when “I’m done” comes at different times of the day. More likely than not, one or more members of the group want to change into comfortable shoes, and others might want to swap gloves or grab a dry hat before heading back out on the slopes. Check out the daytime-use Basket Check service, which is available at Snow Park and Silver Lake Lodges, and is perfect for boot bags which don’t fit into lockers. The large basket is stored safe and sound with whatever gear you might need access to throughout the day. Self-service lockers are also available at these two lodges, as well as at Jordanelle Express Gondola.

Skiing more than one day at Deer Valley? If the answer is yes, you’ve got to check out the complimentary day and overnight ski storage service, available at Snow Park Lodge, Silver Lake Lodge and Jordanelle Express Gondola. Rather than carrying your skis to and from your car or lodging each time, simply check them and they’ll be waiting when you return to ski. We use this service frequently all winter, and often take advantage of the overnight wax offering for just a few dollars. The overnight ski storage holds skis for up to seven days, so it’s perfect when skiing multiple days in a row. Another tip is to take a photo of your ski check tag … just in case you misplace the tag. 

COMPLIMENTARY SKI DEMOS

Looking to try new skis but not sure where to start? Started on your groomer skis and it turned into a powder day? Check out the Rossignol High Performance Test Center where you can try the latest in ski technology, complimentary of course. Located at the top of the race course on Bald Mountain, you can demo different skis all winter long. Reservations are required and can be made on the website.

Originally written by Nick and Laura Como for Deer Valley Resort.