The Lodge in Park City Offers Lackluster Suites in Prime Location

Dave Holland focused on basics when he built The Lodge at Mountain Village: location, location, location. Settled at the base of Park City Mountain Resort for prime ski in/ski out access, The Lodge fetches top dollar during the winter season despite featuring sub-par amenities and simple accommodations compared to other upscale resorts in the area.

Units at The Lodge range from hotel-style studios to 4-Bedroom, 4-Bathroom suites. For new guests with no base of comparison to other resorts in The Lodge's price range, the suites may look homey, inviting and rustic. Each is furnished in mountain taste, usually featuring log furniture, Native American artwork, and photos of smiling skiers. One unit pays tribute to Ansel Adams, while another is decorated with old-fashioned ski equipment. The lived-in feel gives the air of staying with a favorite aunt for the weekend. A musty air lingers in some lower suites, but avid skiers won't worry about tracking in snow or lugging dirty equipment. Appliances look used, but in good condition. A crock pot sits on top of every refrigerator, promising home cooking after a hard day on the slopes. All in all, The Lodge provides cozy, livable units for skiers looking to crash after a long day hitting the mountain.

Guests looking to spend more time relaxing in the suite, however, should come prepared for less than impressive furnishing and amenities for the price. Studios run for $190 a night in winter and can reach $250 or higher in high season. A 1-Bedroom loft can range from close to $500 to nearly $800 in winter, and the 4-Bedroom grand suite reaches $1,810 a night in high season. These rates can fetch condos or town homes further from the lift with significant upgrades.

Guests of The Lodge pay for prime lift access, most appreciated by die-hard skiers and boarders. The Lodge does offer complementary high-speed Internet access in each of its rooms and use of a communal indoor pool, indoor hot tub, and fitness center. Rooms with private hot tubs are also available.

Another benefit of The Lodge's location is the proximity to downtown Park City. A short walk puts visitors right on Main Street, right in the midst of bars, shops, cafés, live theater and ongoing festivals and events. Right in the Mountain Resort is a slice of this scene with a bar, coffee stand, and gift shop. Ski rentals and repair, as well as lessons and kids camp, are also available.

Summer at The Lodge provides a whole different look at the mountain. Drastically lower rates, ranging from $60 a night for a studio to $420 a night for the 4-Bedroom grand, reflect the changing season, but the range of activities in fact grows with warm weather. The Lodge provides guided horseback tours, scenic hikes, and a kids' village, while Utah Olympic Park is just five minutes away, offering aerial ski shows and alpine slides. Hot air balloon rides and rafting trips are also popular, and The Lodge staff can assist with reservations for all summer activities.

No matter what season visitors choose to visit the lodge, they can be assured of homey accommodations, professional, if somewhat formal service, and spectacular views right on the mountain base. For outdoors enthusiasts The Lodge is an ideal place to relax after taking advantage of Park City's unparalleled mountain adventures.