Park City just might be the only town in the country that is home to three of the nation's Top 10 ski resorts. According to the readers of SKI Magazine, Deer Valley, Park City Mountain Resort and Canyons deserve accolades for everything from posh on-mountain dining to gnarly terrain parks.

Of course, most locals were already convinced their hometown resorts were the best, but it is always nice to have that humble opinion validated on the national stage. Last winter was especially challenging and, because of the unusual lack of natural snow, the rewards were even sweeter.

Locals know how much work goes on behind the scenes to earn those lofty compliments for grooming, family activities, ski schools, lifts and, perhaps most important of all, friendly, efficient service. Even in this tight economy the ski areas and the community have rallied to add new attractions, buff up traditional offerings, expand terrain, add snowmaking equipment and get the word out around the world.

Apparently all of those paid off, not just in terms of solid visitor numbers, but, according to SKI Magazine, in happy campers as well.

Special congratulations are due to Canyons, which has stepped up its game from the top of the mountain to the bottom, including adding a snazzy new orange bubble chairlift with heated seats. Canyons entered the Top 10 ranks for the first time this year and the recognition is well earned.

Kudos are also owed to Park City Mountain Resort, which moved up to No. 4 this year and continues to push the envelope with new terrain parks and youth programs. Those initiatives will help to ensure the sport's vitality in the future.

And even though Deer Valley dipped from Number 1 to Number 2, we figure that's just the cost of wearing the yellow jersey for five years running. Deer Valley still topped the charts in mainstay amenities like slope grooming, guest services, on-mountain food, lodging, and more.

The rankings may not come as a complete surprise to Park City residents and the many visitors who treasure our mountains, but the top-notch rankings sure feel good.