Mountain Dell Recreation Area is a cross country (xc) skiing area and sledding area in the Winter, and converts to a golf course in Summer. During Winter, Mountain Dell is maintained by TUNA.
About
The Utah Nordic Alliance (TUNA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting cross-country (XC) skiing and racing in Utah. Their key activities include trail grooming, managing race programs, organizing family ski tours and social events, and maintaining the popular TUNA Yurt in the Uinta Mountains. They also publish a monthly newsletter, TUNA News, which keeps members updated on events, conditions, and ski tips.
One of the top XC skiing venues TUNA supports is Mountain Dell, the only location in the Salt Lake area where ski tracks are groomed daily. While my usual go-to spot is the Millcreek Canyon winter road, it’s rarely groomed, which makes for choppy snow and difficult gliding. The presence of snowshoers in the area also roughens the snow, making it even more challenging for skiers to maintain a smooth rhythm.
Despite loving Millcreek—especially because dogs are allowed on odd-numbered days—this weekend I craved a groomed track and smoother glide. Though I’d never been to Mountain Dell before (mainly because dogs aren’t allowed), I decided to give it a try. I ended up soaking in the sunshine, enjoying the well-set tracks, and appreciating the perfectly maintained trails.
Directions
From SLC, head East on I-80 through Parley’s Canyon. Take exit 134 for Mountain Dell, and follow the brown signs. To start at the Nordic Area, park on the south side of the brick building.
Here is a driving map.
Trail Info
Distance: Mountain Dell offers 10K of groomed trails
Elevation gain: varies
Dog Friendly? No, dogs are not allowed here due to the watershed rules
Kid Friendly? Yes
Pricing: Free parking. $7 day pass, $55 season pass for TUNA members, and $80 season pass for non-TUNA members.
Mountain Dell does NOT rent gear. You need to have your own gear or rent from any of the local ski shops in town, such as REI, Canyon Sports, Wasatch Touring, etc.
Here is the entrance to Mountain Dell. Someone is there to collect fees, and there is also a map to look at. You can see the map at the end of this post.
Skiing around the track, there were a few nice, covered benches to take a quick break.
Ahh, groomed tracks!
If you haven’t skied on groomed xc ski tracks before, the wide open section on the left is for Skate Skiers, and the track on the right is for Classic Skiers. Always be courteous and announce when you are about to pass the person in front of you.
Click this link to see:
What’s the difference between Skate & Classic xc skiing?
Working my way around the track. What a gorgeous, blue bird day!
So happy to be outdoors!
Final thoughts on this area…
The “Pros” of skiing Mountain Dell are the groomed tracks, and the quick, easy access from SLC.
The “Cons” of skiing at Mountain Dell are that dogs are not allowed, and it cost money.
I probably won’t return here because of the “cons”. Although I loved the groomed tracks, it really makes a difference to me
that my dog can’t tag along. Charlie skis with me other places, and absolutely loves it. Plus, I can ski several other places that don’t charge a fee.
Map of Mountain Dell (courtesy of TUNA)
