It remains a mystery why Solitude continues to live up to its name. This unassuming but impressive resort is a skier’s dream and local’s refuge. Let the crowds descend upon other resorts, Solitude remains a skier’s mountain. It’s the perfect place for families to reconnect and explore a gorgeous winter landscape. One reader says that while Solitude “is getting better, it will always be overshadowed by its Park City and Little Cottonwood Canyon neighbors.” Whatever.

With three newer lifts, a quaint European village and improving dining options, Solitude is hardly a sacrifice. Indifferent to the criticism, locals are happy to have Headwall Forest and the polished cruisers to themselves. Fewer crowds means the 500 inches of annual for days. And an uppity attitude is refreshingly absent as Solitude skiers are genuine and low key. With a little charm you can end up with local tips on some of the sweetest lines in the Wasatch. The consensus is that the “slower pace, absence of crowds, good snow and great terrain” far outweigh the grumblings over “lack of night life.”

Do stop in at Last Chance Mining Camp for a hearty bowl of soup, but don’t stay long as Honeycomb Canyon awaits. Solitude remains the perfect place to rediscover your ski roots. —R.H.

What’s New: A new magic carpet for beginners.

Mandatory Run: The Guild Line isn’t on the map. Check in with patrol about the traverse on the left side of Honeycomb to the gate just past Crystal Point.

Don’t Miss: The unique dining experience of The Yurt, via a guided cross country ski or snowshoe trek.