Engen Hus Bed and Breakfast is a charming accommodation option located in Salt Lake City, Utah. This B&B offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere, often praised for its comfortable rooms and personalized service. The property features various amenities including a hearty breakfast, free Wi-Fi, and common areas for relaxation. Guests can appreciate the home-like feel, the attentive host, and the convenient location which provides easy access to local attractions and outdoor activities. The ambiance is both quaint and elegant, making it a perfect choice for couples and solo travelers looking for a peaceful stay.
Salt Lake City, Utah
Salt Lake City, the capital and largest city of Utah, is known for its unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and vibrant culture. Situated in the northern part of Utah, the city is nestled between the Great Salt Lake to the northwest and the Wasatch Range to the east. It experiences a semi-arid climate with four distinct seasons, including hot, dry summers and cold, snowy winters.
Salt Lake City was founded in 1847 by a group of Mormon pioneers led by Brigham Young. They chose the location for its isolation and potential for agricultural development. It quickly became the center of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) and has since grown into a significant metropolitan area.
As of 2020, the city’s population is approximately 200,000, with a larger metropolitan area population of over 1.2 million. The city has a diverse population, with a mix of different ethnicities and cultures. While it remains a center for the LDS Church, Salt Lake City is also home to many other religious and secular communities.
The economy is diverse, with key industries including technology, healthcare, education, and tourism. It has a growing tech sector, often referred to as “Silicon Slopes.” Major employers include Intermountain Healthcare, the University of Utah, and numerous tech companies. The University of Utah is the largest higher education institution in the city, known for its research programs and medical school.
Attractions and Landmarks
- Temple Square: The headquarters of the LDS Church, featuring the Salt Lake Temple, Tabernacle, and other historic buildings.
- Natural Beauty: The nearby mountains offer extensive recreational opportunities, including skiing, hiking, and mountain biking. The Great Salt Lake is a unique natural landmark.
- Cultural Sites: The city has a rich cultural scene with numerous museums, theaters, and music venues. Notable institutions include the Utah Museum of Fine Arts and the Utah Symphony.
- Sundance Film Festival: While primarily held in nearby Park City, many events and screenings occur in Salt Lake City.
- Sports: The city is home to the Utah Jazz (NBA) and Real Salt Lake (MLS), and it hosted the 2002 Winter Olympics, leaving a legacy of sports facilities.
Transportation
- Salt Lake City International Airport is a major hub, providing extensive domestic and international flights. Additionally, the Utah Transit Authority operates a network of buses and light rail (TRAX) services, connecting the city and surrounding areas.
Salt Lake City combines a rich historical background with modern amenities and a stunning natural setting, making it a dynamic and attractive place to live and visit.
History of the Engen Hus Bed & Breakfast
The original Engen Hus was built in 1949 by the Engen brothers: Alf, Sverre, and Corey. Originally from Norway, all three were integral in establishing the ski industry in Utah and Idaho. All three brothers competed internationally and were inducted into the National Ski Hall of Fame. Corey, who owned the house, was the captain for the 1948 U.S. Olympic Ski team. Also of note, for a long time Alf Engen held the world record for the longest nordic ski jump – at over 300 feet! If you have the time, be sure to check out the Alf Engen museum in Park City.
The Engen Brothers
As aforementioned, the Engen brothers, Alf, Sverre, and Corey, were prominent figures in the development of skiing in the United States, particularly in the western states. Originally from Norway, they immigrated to the U.S. and made significant contributions to winter sports.
Alf Engen
- Birth: May 15, 1909
- Death: July 20, 1997
- Contributions: Alf Engen is often regarded as the father of powder skiing. He was a pioneering ski instructor and ski area developer. He played a crucial role in the development of ski resorts in the western United States, including Alta Ski Area in Utah, which is renowned for its deep powder snow. Alf was also a champion ski jumper and held numerous titles in Nordic skiing events.
Sverre Engen
- Birth: April 28, 1911
- Death: December 4, 2001
- Contributions: Sverre Engen was an accomplished ski jumper, skier, and ski area developer. He was involved in promoting skiing and developing ski programs in Utah. Sverre also worked in the film industry, producing ski films that helped popularize the sport.
Corey Engen
- Birth: May 30, 1916
- Death: May 9, 2006
- Contributions: Corey Engen was also a talented skier and ski jumper. He contributed to ski instruction and development in Idaho and Utah. Corey had a successful career in competitive skiing and later focused on teaching and promoting the sport.
The Engen brothers collectively had a profound impact on the skiing industry in the United States. They were instrumental in developing ski techniques, instructing future generations of skiers, and establishing several ski resorts. Their legacy is celebrated through various honors and memorials, including the Alf Engen Ski Museum at the Utah Olympic Park. Their contributions to skiing helped shape the sport into what it is today, especially in terms of recreational skiing and ski resort development in the western United States.
Evolution of Engen Hus
In the late 1940’s the Engen families built five log cabins on a five acre plot of land on Big Cottonwood Canyon Road. The timbers were harvested from a forest fire in Montana. Skiers from all over the world began to use the cabins as their base camp.
In the late 1980’s Engen Hus became a Bed and Breakfast, called Log Cabin on the Hill. Years later, in 2014, a couple by the name of Doug and Karen Stewart bought the house and subsequently both expanded and modernized it. Following these updates the former Log Cabin on the Hill became known as The Engen His Bed & Breakfast – honoring the rich heritage it represents. After 6 years of dedication, the Stewarts began looking for someone to ‘pass the reigns’ to. In answer to their prayers and her own, the Stewarts met a lovely lady named Esther, now the current innkeeper since early 2020.
Esther is a wonderful innkeeper and hostess. Her attention to detail is evident in everything at Engen Has as is her passion and genuine love for the property and its legacy. Esther’s warm hospitality, willingness to accommodate and go above and beyond for her guests are all qualities that add to the luxury experience of staying at Engen Hut Bed & Breakfast. Esther continues to dedicate herself to providing a luxury retreat for guests to relax and recharge all while honoring the history and legacy of the Engen family.
What Sets Engen Hus Apart
The Engen Hus bed and breakfast in Salt Lake City, stands out due to several unique features that create a distinctive and memorable experience for its guests:
- Location: Engen Hus is conveniently located both near downtown and close to outdoor attractions
- History: As expanded on above, the Engen Hus has historic significance
- ‘Home away from home vibe’
- Proximity to several slopes
- Rustic Log Cabin aesthetic
- Homemade Breakfast: Each morning, the inn serves a homemade breakfast featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. This meal offers a warm and delicious start to the day amidst the serene settings of the inn.
- Proximity to Outdoor Activities: Located at the base of Big Cottonwood Canyon, Engen Hus offers easy access to a variety of outdoor activities, including skiing/snowboarding, hiking, biking, and bird watching, allowing guests to explore the scenic beauty of Salt Lake City directly from their doorstep.
Amenities at Engen Hus
- Free, on-site parking
- laundry
- hot breakfast
- complimentary snacks and beverages (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) available 24 hours
- hot tub
- fire pit
- Sound-proofed walls
- daily housekeeping upon request
- gas grill
- patio
- cozy sitting areas
- Smart tvs
- DVD and game closet
- Books
- heated bathroom floors (GAME CHANGER)
- comfy beds, luxury linens and plush towels
- 24-hour tea and coffee bar
- flexible check-in/check-out
Breakfast
Breakfast at Engen Hus is included in the nightly rate and is served Wednesday through Sunday mornings. There is no breakfast served Monday and Tuesday mornings which is reflected in the nightly rate as applicable. Breakfast is served at 8:30 and 9am. Guests reserve their breakfast time slot the night prior. Additionally guests are able to select what breakfast they would like to be served from the menu (pictured left).
Esther works wonders in the kitchen whipping up guests a delectable, balanced, and filling breakfast. Her care is evident as much in this as in everything else she does. It is so nice to be hosted by someone who genuinely thrives in creating a pleasurable and memorable experience for guests.
Rooms at Engen Hus
Engen Hus currently has 5 private suites: Corey, Buckskin, Catherine, Florence, and Bryce; each with its own private ensuite bathroom.
The Corey
As the name suggests, the Corey suite pays homage to Corey Engen in honor of his incredible athletic legacy as well as being the original owner of Engen Has. I had the luxurious pleasure of staying in the Corey suite which had many elevated features including beautiful hardwood floors, 14-foot vaulted ceilings with skylights , HEATED bathroom floors, the most comfortable King-sized bed, French doors that open onto the patio and backyard.
Choose Engen Hus
Booking a local bed and breakfast over a chain hotel can offer several distinctive advantages that cater to travelers seeking a unique and personalized lodging experience. Here are some key reasons to consider the Engen Hus for your next Salt Lake City stay:
- Unique Character and Style: Engen Hus was designed with a keen eye for aesthetics and individuality. Each suite has its own distinct style, providing an atmosphere that can’t usually be found in the more standardized chain hotels
- Personalized Service: With far fewer rooms compared to chain hotels, Engen Hus offers a higher level of service with attention to individual guest needs. The staff can provide a more personalized experience, from custom recommendations to tailored services
- Local Flavor: Engen Hus is deeply integrated into its local environment, reflecting ski culture and spirit and legacy of the Engen brothers. This includes art display and decor that resonates with the history and character of the property..
- Prime Location: Engen Hus is located near the heart of the city, rather than the commercial zones where chains might dominate. Engen Hus provides easy access to local attractions, restaurants, and entertainment
- Fewer Guests, More Privacy: With smaller occupancy capacity than chain hotels, Engen Hus can offer a more private and serene experience. This is particularly appealing for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of large hotel environments.
- Supporting Small Businesses: Staying at Engen Hus means supporting a local small business. This can be a gratifying choice for travelers who are conscious about the economic impact of their spending
- Social Spaces: Engen Hus provides a variety of common areas to encourage social interaction between guests; this includes a fire pit, grill, hot tub, living room with a fireplace and more which can add an extra layer of enjoyment to your trip.
- Memorable Experience: Ultimately, the blend of design, service, and ambiance at Engen Hus can lead to a more memorable lodging experience compared to the more formulaic approach of large hotel chains.
Choosing to stay at Engen Hus can transform a simple stay in Salt Lake City into a distinctive and delightful experience, blending luxury with the charm and personality of the local area.
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About The Author
Isabel is a single mother and avid traveler based out of Cleveland, Ohio. Just over one year ago, she established this travel blog as a passion project. Letting her ‘creative juices’ flow, she was able to combine to of her hobbies: writing and photography.
Isabel’s goal for this pursuit is to highlight a growing collection of destinations that cater to a wide variety of lifestyle and budgets. Isabel has undertaken a variety of projects including: general travel guides, guides to museums and other attractions, restaurant reviews, reviews on unique lodging and even commissioned work allowing her to work with in conjunction with tourism boards to promote a certain destination.
In addition to dedicating near-full-time hours to her job as a travel blogger and micro-influencer, Isabel is a full-time emergency room paramedic and part-time firefighter. Above all, Isabel is a devoted mother to her 8-year-old daughter, Lily.
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