I think Utah is a very good program, and I ranked them very highly. Their didactics are great and the attendings are eager to teach. The program attracts very strong candidates, and they have matched very well in the past few years. The residents are very bright and seem willing to help each other out and challenge each other. The residents are very active and do have time to enjoy extracurricular activites such as great skiing, outdoor activities, and sports. They all seem to get along very well and are laid back. There are both MD's and DO's. I think the personality and quality of residents is a strength of the program. Dr. Willick runs the sports/spine fellowship which is a great fellowship, and residents do spend time at the UofU Orthopaedic Center which is incredible. That is where the sports med rotations take place and is where the fluoro suite is. Residents do get some hands on experience with interventional procedures, and can probably get quite a bit depending on thier interest and how they spend their elective time. Their EMG experience is adequate but I wouldn't say outstanding. They are currently in a transitional phase with their chair. In my opinion this is definitely a program worth a look and rank.
As for living in Salt Lake, it isn't as bad as people may think. There is plenty to do around, and the nightlife is not as dull as some may think. The outdoor activities are unmatched in any major city, and I'm sure I don't have to comment on the skiing. If you have any questions about living in SLC you can PM me.