Solitude opened to skiing in 1957 under they eye of Robert M.
Barrett, a hard-rock miner with a passion for skiing. It was,
in face, miners who bestowed the name of “Solitude,” noticing
a lack of high winds in this area of the Wasatch.
The DeSeelhorst family became involved with Solitude in the
late 1970’s, bringing a vision to create an intimate four-season
European-style resort. Embodying the rugged beauty and ambiance
of Big Cottonwood Canyon is the hallmark of this gem of an alpine
retreat.
The Sunrise Lift was added in 1980, which opened the splendor
of Solitude Canyon to lift-served skiing. Two years later the
Summit lift was installed, accessing the upper reaches of Solitude
Canyon, as well as Honeycomb Canyon. Honeycomb Canyon, named
for the many mineshafts burrowing the slopes and hillsides -
much like the hollows of a honeycomb – presented visitors
an in-bounds off-piste experience: which today is still compared
to a pristine backcountry area. The eighties would conclude with
the addition of the Eagle Express, Utah’s first high-speed
quad, which grew Solitude’s skiable terrain to 1200 acres.
Today, 8 lifts access over sixty named runs and three bowls catering
to all ability levels.
The pedestrian-only Village commenced construction on 1989,
which would eventually grow to encompass five condominium buildings,
a first class hotel at The Inn at Solitude, an ice skating rink,
as well as fine- and family-dining options. Growth in the Village
has some at a deliberately slow pace, so as to preserve the sense
of place Solitude has come to embody. Today, you will find a
tranquil Village with European-inspired architecture and cobblestone
walkways amidst the natural beauty of the mountains.
As Solitude has grown through the decades, the DeSeelhorst’s
vision has manifested due to Solitude remaining a place of just
that: solitude. The Village and mountain exemplify a complement
to nature, not a contrast, allowing visitors to experience an
unspoiled place where they are free to reconnect with nature,
friends and family.
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