Welcome, future two-home wonder! You’ve got one place to call home, but who can live in just one house these days? Let’s face it, you need a second home. And where better to build it than Utah—the land of mountains, adventure, and, most importantly, some seriously enviable Instagram backdrops?
Whether you’re dreaming of ski resorts, desert landscapes, or just want to be surrounded by neighbors who know how to survive the wilderness, Utah’s got a spot for you. So, buckle up, folks. Here’s your guide to the hottest (and coolest) spots in the Beehive State to build your dream second home.
1. Park City: Where the Rich and Famous Get Snowed In
Want to rub elbows with celebs while pretending to care about Sundance Film Festival movies? Then Park City is calling your name. This ski resort town isn’t just for hitting the slopes, it’s for showing off your winter chalet. Park City is a vibe—think cozy fireplaces, luxurious ski-in, ski-out homes, and après-ski that’s more “gourmet cocktails” than hot cocoa. Build your second home here, and suddenly you’ll know what it’s like to have an “off-season.”
2. Moab: For the Adventure Junkie with a Soft Spot for Red Rocks
Let’s say you’re not just into ski boots and cashmere sweaters. Maybe you’re the type who prefers to slap on a helmet and conquer the desert. Moab is your playground. Build your second home here, and you’ll be waking up to views of arches, mesas, and sandstone formations so otherworldly, you’ll feel like you’re living on Mars (but with better Wi-Fi). Mountain biking, rock climbing, and hiking await, plus, let’s be real—what could be better than humblebragging, “Oh, I’m heading to my desert house this weekend”?
3. Salt Lake City: The Urban Escape with Mountain Perks
Ah, Salt Lake City, where you get the best of both worlds—urban life with the mountains always peeking over your shoulder like a friendly giant. SLC is ideal for those who want a second home without giving up their city slicker conveniences. Here, you can find a modern townhouse close to all the craft breweries and trendy restaurants your Instagram feed desires, while still being only 30 minutes away from some of the best ski resorts in the country. Plus, you’ll get to say things like, “I just love how SLC balances city life and nature,” and feel super deep about it.
4. Ogden Valley: The Under-the-Radar Gem for Laid-Back Living
If you’re looking for a little more chill and a little less “everyone knows about it,” Ogden Valley might just be your perfect second home spot. Nestled between snow-capped peaks and serene reservoirs, this area is for those who prefer their weekends filled with quiet moments by the fireplace, but still love hitting the slopes when the mood strikes. It’s close enough to Salt Lake City for when you need a taste of the city life, but far enough that you can escape the hustle and bustle. Plus, it’s one of those places where people will ask, “Where’s your second home again?” and you get to feel superior when they’ve never heard of it.
5. St. George: Where Snowbirds Fly and Stay Forever
If the mere thought of snow makes you want to hibernate, head south to St. George. This desert oasis is the perfect spot to build your second home if you’re into hiking without freezing your extremities off or playing golf year-round. Zion National Park is practically your backyard, and let’s be honest—who doesn’t want to casually drop that into a conversation? “Oh, I just popped over to Zion this weekend, no big deal.” Plus, St. George’s warm weather means you can keep up your tan while the rest of the state is busy shoveling snow. It’s a win-win!
6. Heber Valley: For That Small Town Charm with Big Views
Heber Valley is where you go when you want a picturesque small-town feel with a mountain backdrop that looks like it belongs on a postcard. If you’re into lakes, fly fishing, and being surrounded by towering peaks, Heber Valley is your spot. Your second home here could be the envy of all your friends as you casually mention you spent the weekend “catching trout and watching the sunset over the Wasatch Mountains.” No biggie, right?
7. Bear Lake: Utah’s Own Caribbean (Minus the Sharks)
If you want your second home to come with a slice of beach life, then say hello to Bear Lake. Known as the “Caribbean of the Rockies” (yes, we’re serious), Bear Lake boasts turquoise waters that will have your friends thinking you’ve secretly been building a home in the tropics. It’s perfect for boating, swimming, and showing off those beach towels you bought last summer. Build here, and you’ll have the ultimate summer getaway—complete with raspberry shakes that the locals swear by.
So, Why Wait?
You’ve made it this far. Clearly, you’re ready to embrace the second home life, and Utah’s just waiting for you with open arms (and endless outdoor activities). Whether you want to ski in luxury, hike like a desert warrior, or just sip coffee while watching the mountains from your deck, Utah’s got a second-home location with your name on it.
Now all that’s left to do is call Peterson’s Builders, because let’s be real—building a second home is way better when you’ve got the pros on your side. We’ve been crafting custom homes since 1976, and trust us, we know how to make your second home dreams a reality. So, are you ready to start building?