Frustrated Skiers in Park City Voice Their Dismay Over Limited Resort Access and Long Delays

PARK CITY, Utah — Families flocking to Park City for holiday skiing are singing a familiar tune of frustration this season. From strikes by ski patrol staff to severe winter storms causing delayed openings, many groups have encountered significant disruptions in their ski trips. Echoing the sentiments of many, local residents and business owners warn that these troubles could have lasting impacts on the community.

The Clinkenbeard family, who planned their holiday getaway alongside other families in Canyons Village, expressed their deep disappointment. "We paid $10,000 per family for this vacation," Amy Clinkenbeard lamented. "We chose to ski over Christmas with other options available, but we won't do this again. The amount spent to not ski is abysmal."

Their complaints were echoed by Jason Davis, who visited with six adults and four children. He recounted a harrowing experience at the resort: "The Red Pine gondola opened 45 minutes late, and the line was two hours long. We were already two hours late getting started."

Additional troubles were exacerbated by a power outage on December 30, which further delayed lift openings and forced guests at Canyons Village to take shuttles to reach skiing access. Davis recalled, "That trek alone would have taken hours, not to mention the lines we faced after finally getting there."

Local businesses, including ski rental shops, restaurants, hotels, and property owners, are particularly vulnerable during these peak holiday times. Many of these operators thrive on the influx of holiday visitors. "This is going to hurt the entire community," Clinkenbeard stated. "Families like ours won't return."

Adding to the unease, the ongoing strike among ski patrol personnel has raised safety concerns. Amy remarked, "With the reduced ski patrol presence, I think twice before sending my kids out to ski."

While Vail Resorts announced that planned runs would be operational, Clinkenbeard was quick to point out the discrepancy. "There’s a difference between a run being open and the lift needed to access it being functional," she said, highlighting a point of contention among frustrated visitors.

Despite the chaos, the Clinkenbeards and Davis family have tried to make the best of their stay, spending more time in their rental property than on the slopes. "Next time, we’ll go somewhere else," they agreed, indicating their dissatisfaction with the current experience.

When questioned about potential refunds or a compensation plan for the impacted visitors, Park City’s COO Deirdra Walsh responded, "All scheduled terrain in Mountain Village opened on time today, but lifts in the Canyons Village were limited. We are communicating directly with guests about their concerns."

As the holiday season continues, skiers and families hoping to enjoy a winter wonderland in Park City are left hoping for smoother operations and a more enjoyable experience in the future. Will these issues deter vacationers from returning, or will Park City work to regain its reputation as a top ski destination? Only time will tell.