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Overview

Welcome to Alta, an independently-owned ski area since 1938. Alta is proud to be a ski area and not a ski resort. Nestled at the top of Little Cottonwood Canyon deep in the Wasatch mountains, Alta is known around the globe for its powder skiing. With an annual snowfall average of 547” powder days are a way of life here. It’s a magnetic way of life that draws the same employees and guests back to Alta’s community each winter.

Come for the skiing. Stay for the skiing.

Where Is Alta Ski Area Located?

Alta ski resort is located 32 miles or about 45 minutes from Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). It is in Utah’s Wasatch Mountain Range, at the top of Little Cottonwood Canyon. You can rent a car or book a shuttle, or you can take advantage of the Utah Transit Authority (UTA) public ski buses. There is free parking at the Wildcat and Albion base areas.

Inside Scoop

Alta Ski Area and Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort offer the Alta-Snowbird Pass which enables skiers to access both resorts' terrain. A connection gate at the saddle separating Alta's Albion Basin and Snowbird's Mineral Basin is used to move between the two resorts. So, get a joint day or season pass.

Leave the car in the parking lot, and use the free Alta Town shuttle. It makes a continuous loop between major areas of the town. During the winter, you must either carry chains or have snow tires on your car to drive through Little Cotton Wood Canyon.  

Restaurants

Breakfast Places

  • You can pretty well find food throughout the day at the Alta Lodge. Check the times for breakfast to ensure that you don’t miss it. 10230 East Hwy 210, Alta, UT 84092

Our Favorite Lunch Spots

  • Located right on the mountain, Alf’s Restaurant offers visitors everything from sandwiches to soup to fresh baked goods. 10202 Little Cottonwood Canyon Road, Alta, UT 84092

Dinner

  • Located next door at Snowbird, the Lodge Bistro allows you to watch the sunset while having a delectable meal. 9260 Lodge Drive, Snowbird, UT 84092

Apres/Nightlife

  • Alta Peruvian Lodge Bar is a local favorite. Grab some free popcorn, and listen to a local band if you there on a Sunday. 10000 Little Cottonwood Canyon Road, Alta, UT 84092

Best Time for Snow

Average Snowfall

107"
67"
45"
22"
0"
30"
Nov
82"
Dec
89"
Jan
81"
Feb
77"
Mar
45"
Apr
50"
May
0"
Jun

Total Lifts: 5

High Speed Sixes
1
High Speed Quads
3
Double Chairs
1

Elevation

Base
8530'
Summit
11068'
Vertical Drop
2538'

Important Dates

November 22, 20242024/11/22
Projected Opening
April 20, 20252025/04/20
Projected Closing
142
Projected Days Open
156
Days Open Last Year
86
Years Open
547"
Average Snowfall
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