The Viking Yurt is back this winter. Brian and Dena Merrill, along with their son Dylan, have been operating this culinary adventure since 2023.
The Merrills aren't strangers to adventure. Their story actually started on the water, guiding whitewater rafting trips on the Colorado and Green rivers for Western River Expeditions. Though Brian eventually headed to the University of Maryland for law school and practiced in New Mexico, the pull of the Utah outdoors was too strong to ignore. They eventually returned to their roots to run Western River Expeditions and Moab Adventure Center, and brought that passion for guiding to the slopes. They’ve even brought in seasonal staff from their river expedition company to help with dining operations at the yurt during the winter months.
"Dylan worked at the Yurt for a few seasons, and we exchanged [seasonal] employees with the yurt so we knew the previous owners well," said Dena. "When they decided to retire, we took it on."
Getting the food to the yurt is no easy feat, requiring careful planning and teamwork. Chefs Nick Smith and Stephanie DeVisser haul all the necessary ingredients and supplies via a trailer pulled by a snowmobile, often making multiple trips. The challenges don’t end there—once they reach the yurt, they must adapt to a kitchen without running water, relying on their resourcefulness to prepare a high-quality meal in such a remote, rustic environment. This dedication adds an extra layer of uniqueness to the dining experience, making every dish served in the yurt a true labor of love. The six-course, prix fixe meal is steeped in Nordic tradition.
So, what can you expect? The adventure starts at Legacy Lodge, where you’ll hop on a 32-person snowcat-pulled sleigh for a 25-minute ride up the mountain. The views are absolutely stunning—think snow-covered trees, twinkling city lights, and a starry sky! Once you arrive at the yurt (located mid-mountain at the top of Crescent Lift), you’re welcomed with a warm mug of Glogg, piano music, and a cozy fire.
"Our ideal guest is someone who appreciates homemade foods, a wine list curated by organic, small family-owned vineyards up in the mountain regions and someone who wants to meet and enjoy new people," Dena explained.
Dining at The Viking Yurt is an intimate affair, with a single seating at 7 p.m. for up to 40 guests. The season runs from December through mid-April. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic date or a special celebration.
For those seeking a more casual experience, the yurt is also open for lunch, offering a perfect ski-in, ski-out destination. Guests can enjoy a warm, inviting atmosphere while indulging in a selection of comforting dishes, including hearty soups, gourmet sandwiches, and freshly baked treats. It is an ideal stop to refuel during a day on the slopes, combining convenience with an unforgettable dining experience. No reservation needed.
"We love our guests; there are people who come back multiple times a season, year after year," Dena said. "We have one couple who will spend their 11th New Year's Eve with us. They have become part of our yurt family. We have met some of the best people, I think it is indicative of people who are open to new experiences."
Reservations for dinner are open at thevikingyurt.com. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable winter journey.