Replying to Best time of the year for SLC?

I have never been to the midwest for skiing or for any other reason otherwise(Cause I'm an arrogant New Yorker), so I am not sure when the best time to travel there during the winter would be. I am shooting to stay for two weeks sometime this winter, and not pay too much, so no holidays. I am trying to pick up some tickets now so I don't get screwed. If someone can give me a 3 week timeframe when the snow is historically pretty good, and its not during a big holiday, that would be awesome.

I am probably just going to hit up Alta and Snowbird, so any tips on getting cheap lift tickets(Stealing doesn't count) would be greatly appreciated.

P.S. I know Utah isn't really midwest, but if it's inbetween NY and Cali, it's midwest to me.