Alta and Snowbird Ski Guide
Alta and Snowbird are neighboring mountains in Utah, known for their steep terrain and deep snow, with high annual averages of snowfall (over 500 inches). Alta is a skier-only mountain, which offers a unique skiing experience, while Snowbird caters to both skiers and snowboarders. Both mountains are two of my favorite places to ski! They both offer challenging terrain and scenic beauty, which make them a favorite among advanced skiers, though they also offer runs suitable for all skill levels.
Alta and Snowbird are connected via access points on the mountain, with the main gate located at the top of Sugarloaf Lift on the Alta side and the top of Baldy Express on the Snowbird side. Skiing at both mountains extends the terrain you can ski!
This Alta and Snowbird ski guide will help you navigate the essentials for planning your ski trip, including how to get there, where to stay, dining options, and the best parts of the mountain to ski.
Alta And Snowbird Ski Passes
Alta and Snowbird offer individual ski passes for single-day, multi-day, or full season. They also provide combination passes to be able to ski both Alta and Snowbird freely. In addition, Alta and Snowbird are on the Ikon Pass, which is a good option if you will be skiing at multiple mountains during the year.
Getting To Alta And Snowbird
Alta and Snowbird are about 30 miles from downtown Salt Lake City and are accessible via Utah’s Scenic Highway 210 (Little Cottonwood Canyon).
By Air: The closest major airport is Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), about 30 miles away, which takes about 45 minutes to drive.
Rental Cars/Driving: At the airport, you can rent a car for your time skiing in Alta and Snowbird (my go-to car rental is Enterprise). There are traction laws for the road leading up to Alta and Snowbird Ski Areas, so make sure you have a car with 4-wheel drive, snow tires, or chains.
Shuttles/Private Transportation: There are various shuttles and private transportation options that can take you to/from the airport, Park City, Salt Lake City, or other surrounding areas in Utah. Check out the full list of companies, contact information, and schedules here.
If you are staying at the base of Alta or Snowbird, I would highly encourage you to consider using one of the shuttle options as the ski areas are compact and you will not need a car during your stay.
Parking: Parking reservations are becoming common at ski resorts, due to overcrowding of parking lots. During weekends and holidays, parking can get challenging at the resorts. Make sure to check the parking requirements at Alta and Snowbird.
Alta currently requires parking reservations Friday–Sunday & holidays from 8 am–1 pm for ~$25. Snowbird does not have these requirements but has a variety of parking options such as parking in a free lot on a first-come, first-served basis or paying for reserved parking.
Traffic: During weekends and holidays, many people flock to ski resorts and with there only being one road in/out of Alta and Snowbird, it can create some nasty traffic! If commuting to the resort each day, on weekends and holidays I would highly recommend getting to the base before 8:30 am (or after 1 pm for afternoon skiing) and leaving the ski area around 2 pm or enjoying an aprés-ski and leaving around 6 pm.
On one of my more recent trips, the powder was so good I left Alta around 3:30 pm and was stuck in traffic on the canyon road for 3 ½ hours barely moving! I am not joking! It wasn’t until about 6 pm that the traffic started moving consistently. But, if you follow those general times for busy days, you will be just fine!
Canyon Closure Warning: Alta and Snowbird are located in a canyon, and the one road to/from the ski areas (Little Cottonwood Canyon Rd) can sometimes close due to weather, providing no access in or out of Alta and Snowbird. Always check the Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) for updated information.
During one of my times skiing at Alta, the weather was showing a big storm coming, creating concern that the road might close. Luckily we had gotten our full ski days in, but we were flying out the next morning. As we did not want to risk missing our flight, we decided to drive out that night and stay close to the airport to ensure we made our flight. The road ended up staying open but this shows you may have to make a similar decision and need to be flexible with your plans! This is rare, but it can happen so be prepared!
Where To Stay When Skiing At Alta and Snowbird
There are a range of accommodation options in the Snowbird and Alta areas. Additionally, check out Airbnb and VRBO for various vacation rental options.
The accommodations at Alta and Snowbird can fill up quickly, especially for busy holidays, so make sure you book your reservations way in advance (6-12 months).
Alta
Alta has five lodges at its base, all of which are within walking distance of each other and close to lifts.
Snowpine Lodge: This is the most luxurious option with ski-in/ski-out access, premium amenities, and good dining. It has been rebuilt to provide a good accommodations experience including an outdoor heated swimming pool, spa, game room, and ski shop. The lodge offers various room types, including Slope Side Kings, Family Kings, Double Rooms, Suites, and dorm accommodations for those on a budget.
Rustler Lodge, Peruvian Lodge, Goldminer’s Daughter, and Alta Lodge: These all provide basic accommodations and nothing too fancy. They are known for their friendly vibe, welcoming atmosphere for families, and variety of room options to suit different preferences and budgets. All provide ski-in/ski-out access, outside of Peruvian Lodge which provides an easily accessible shuttle to bring you just a couple of minutes to the base lift.
Snowbird
The Cliff Lodge: This is a luxurious lodge with a spa, dining options, and outdoor pools and hot tubs.
The Lodge at Snowbird: Offers condominium accommodations with easy access to the Snowbird Center and Aerial Tram.
The Inn: This provides a range of lodging options along with a pool, hot tub, and fitness facilities.
The Iron Blosam: Features shared-ownership condominiums with an outdoor pool and indoor hot tub.
The Cliff Club: Offers luxury condominiums with ski-in/ski-out convenience.
Outside Of The Ski Area
Another option is to stay outside of the Alta and Snowbird ski areas, which is a good option for budget travelers as accommodation inside the ski area can get expensive. Look for hotels in Cottonwood Heights (my recommendation), Midvale, or Salt Lake City. All of these are within 30-45 minutes from the ski area.
Where To Eat When Skiing At Alta and Snowbird
Although the ski area bases are not as built up as some other resorts, Alta and Snowbird still have several great dining options for diverse preferences. Make reservations at these restaurants for dinner, especially during weekends and holidays.
Alta
Albion Grill for breakfast specials and a quick, tasty cafeteria with great views.
Alf’s Restaurant is the perfect place to stop mid-day, mid-mountain with traditional ski cuisine and a family-friendly atmosphere. There is also a small ski shop and a coffee shop on the first floor.
Watson Shelter includes Watson Cafe and Collins Grill, offering locally sourced dishes and a fine-dining lunch experience with canyon views.
Swen’s Restaurant at Snowpine Lodge for a more upscale dining experience with locally sourced ingredients.
Snowbird
The Aerie and SeventyOne are both located in The Cliff Lodge and offer fine dining experiences.
The Lodge Bistro serves American & French fare with mountain views.
Steak Pit is a cozy spot for a hearty meal after a day on the slopes.
The Wildflower offers delicious Italian cuisine.
The Forklift is a casual dining option for a relaxed meal.
Best Parts Of The Mountain To Ski At Alta and Snowbird
Alta
Check out the full map here.
Beginners should start with Crooked Mile back down to the bottom of the Sunnyside lift.
Intermediates can warm up on Blue Bell or Race Arena before heading to the Sugarloaf area via Dipsy Doodle and then to Supreme Lift for a variety of blue runs.
Experts have plenty of options including black-diamond chutes off of Supreme Lift or a quick hike to Catherine’s Bowl, and iconic runs off Collins and Wildcat Liifts, such as Alf’s High Rustler and Gunsight.
Snowbird
Check out the full map here.
Beginners should check out Chickadee and Baby Thunder Lift, which offer gentle slopes.
Intermediates should check out Gadzoom and Mid-Gad Lift, which gives access to a variety of blue runs.
Experts should take The Tram to the top of Hidden Peak and the Peruvian Express Lift to the top of Peruvian Gulch, where you will find Snowbird’s famous steep and deep terrain. Areas like Cirque Traverse and Mineral Basin are must-skis for any advanced skier seeking challenging runs.
Apres-Ski At Alta And Snowbird
The après-ski scene in Alta and Snowbird is focused on socializing with a relaxed vibe to unwind after a day of skiing.
Alta
The Peruvian Dog (“P Dog”) at the Alta Peruvian Lodge has an extensive beer and cocktail menu and free popcorn.
The Goldminer’s Saloon provides pizza, beer, and beautiful views.
The Sitzmark Club at the Alta Lodge offers a cozy ambiance with fireplaces and incredible views.
Snowbird
The Tram Club, located beneath the Tram Deck in the Snowbird Center, is a popular sports bar known for its spicy cheese fries, variety of draft beers, and an unbeatable shot-and-a-beer deal for only $5.
Alta and Snowbird’s incredible snow, terrain variety, and friendly atmosphere make it the perfect spot for skiers looking for a challenge on the slopes and relaxation for après-ski.
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