University of Utah computer science major and regular Ski.Utah.Edu contributor Jake Kirshner (of JakeCast fame) is one of Microsoft’s five finalists to cover the 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver. But, to… Read more
Well, it’s officially preseason in Utah, but the lines between real life and winter are beginning to blur. The second class gets out, I turn to photo and shred mode, and come Monday, I wonder… Read more
The snow has finally started to fall in the Wasatch Front, and while some are sitting and drooling waiting for those lifts to open, others can’t even wait for a decent coverage.… Read more
The University of Utah is nestled in the Wasatch foothills, overlooking Salt Lake City, the Great Salt Lake, and the Great Basin's west desert. Behind the U, in the Wasatch Mountains, lies some of the world's best biking and hiking trails, rock climbs, and ski and snowboard terrain. No fewer than SEVEN mountain resorts are a mere 40 minutes from campus. The fact that they receive upwards of 500 inches of the driest snow on Earth is why Utah powder is widely known as "the greatest snow on Earth."
Combine this location with the first-rate education you'll get at the University of Utah and you have the makings of a transformative experience. Among the top public research universities in the country--with highly ranked business, law, medical, computer science and engineering schools (as well as our internationally acclaimed dance and music programs), the U offers students an unparalleled education.
With spectacular and diverse landscapes so close to campus, it's no wonder the University of Utah attracts a ton of outdoor enthusiasts. Whether your passion is hiking, biking, climbing, running the river, fly fishing, or, of course, hitting the slopes on a fresh powder day, you'll find it close to the U. Below are some campus organizations that can help you make the most of Utah's mountains, creeks, and canyons.
Outdoor Recreation Program: Don't want to splurge at REI? Try ORP. Located near the mouth of Red Butte Canyon, ORP is a haven for anyone needing last-minute gear or for those looking to demo a new sport, say ice climbing. ORP also organizes recreation trips throughout the year, as well as classes to hone your respective sport's skills, and it's a great place to meet like-minded outdoor enthusiasts.
Utah Freeskier Society: This group has been "killing" it on the big mountains and in the backcountry since 2002, while hooking its members up with season pass discounts.
OneLove Ski and Snowboard Club: The cultures unite at the U's only ski and snowboard club. OneLove's 1000+ members always agree on one thing: Utah powder is the sickest. And, the club's bennies are pretty good, too.
