Provo, UT

In spite of living in a state with a reputation for “the greatest snow on earth,” I haven’t been on skis for years. But two summers ago I found myself drawn to Snowbasin Ski Resort for another reason–the free Sunday Concert Series.

Each Sunday from June through September, music- and outdoor-lovers alike can visit Snowbasin for music on the plaza. They feature different local musicians each week, from Classic Rock to Brazilian Jazz, Reggae, Celtic, Bluegrass…even German polka and a Carlos Santana Tribute band.

At the first concert I attended, Desert Wind performed a fusion of light jazz and rock. There’s nothing quite like enjoying the mountain air and listening to music, spending quality time with great people. My husband and I have gone a few times, with our daughter, with friends, and just the two of us. In fact, I highly recommend this if you want to impress a date. It’s a relaxed, casual way to get to know someone new, or just rekindle the romance.

An added bonus: it’s usually a bit cooler because of the higher altitude, so even though you’re outside there may be a bit of a relief from the summer heat. However, there’s not much shade, so you need to wear sunscreen and bring an umbrella or shade tent. And bring chairs or a blanket for sitting, too.

You can’t bring coolers or outside food/drink, but if you get hungry, they do serve BBQ on the plaza from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The concert is free to the public, and held from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Before the music begins, a really nice way to spend the afternoon is by taking a gondola ride ($14 for adults; no pets allowed) to the top of the mountain. Once at the top, the ridgeline offers spectacular scenery and stunning vistas. To the east, you can see Pineview Reservoir and Ogden Valley; to the west, Taylor Canyon and the Great Salt Lake.

There are more than 20 miles of trails for hikers and mountain bikers. We walked the Needles Nature Trail, a short and easy little walk with a practice loop and majestic views–and great for hand-holding.

While you’re up there, you can have brunch at Needles lodge. There was a huge selection, everything from traditional breakfast items to custom omelets, salmon, a carving station, a pasta station, fresh fruit, cakes and pastries. Good service and gorgeous views, although a little pricey ($35 for adults, but includes the price of the gondola ticket).

You can keep it simple with a picnic among the wildflowers. But dining and gondola rides are just something extra to do. You don’t have to spend a dime to hear the music! The 2008 Sunday Concert Series begins on June 22.

Snowbasin is located in the Wasatch-Cache National Forest, about 33 miles from Salt Lake City.
For directions: http://www.snowbasin.com/summer/getting_here.asp.

For more information:
http://www.snowbasin.com/
(801) 620-1000