National Geographic recently named Ogden, Utah as one of the “Top 10 Emerging Ski Towns” and for good reason. The outdoor industry is thriving in Northern Utah, with no signs of slowing down anytime soon. This old railroad town has transformed itself into an outdoor adventure mecca. Utah proudly boasts it’s prestigious reputation for having, “The Best Snow on Earth” to attract winter sports enthusiasts from all over the nation to play in our very own backyard.
I recently bundled up my 3-year-old daughter and took her on a scenic drive to Snowbasin Resort located in beautiful Ogden Valley. As we pulled into the snow covered parking lot, she pointed out all the tiny skiers on the mountain. I asked her if she wanted to try snowboarding and she looked at me like I was crazy (a look she often gives to me). As we walked into the Grizzly Center, she informed me that she didn’t see any little girls her age snowboarding on the mountain. Little did she know, she was going to be one of the first.
Snowbasin recently joined forces with Burton Snowboards to build one of Utah’s first Burton Riglet Parks.
Burton Snowboards revolutionized the approach to teaching kids ages 3-6 to shred by designing a progression-based learning course emphasizing balance, movement, and control in a fun and safe environment. This approach allows tiny athletes to achieve their winter sports goals while having fun and building confidence, leaving the mountain feeling like they accomplished something. My daughter was instantly excited to snowboard when she saw the dinosaur-themed learning area located in the Grizzly Center rental shop. Despite her initial reluctance, the staff at Snowbasin quickly had her fitted into boots and strapped onto a snowboard. Boarding coach, Jon Clark took hold of the retractable reel mount attached to the front of the snowboard and confidently took my daughter on the mountain course. Within minutes Jon had her laughing and having fun. I stood amazed as I watched my 3 year old riding the board downhill, jumping and learning her edges. She was having the time of her life! After the class was over she was high-fiveing all the Snowbasin employees with her new found confidence. Snowbasin and Burton are bringing a great opportunity to Northern Utah kids.
Snowboarding is fun for the whole family. It’s a great way to enjoy the stunning beauty of Northern Utah while spending time together and building memories that will last a lifetime. So let’s load up the minivan and head for the slopes!
