Travel to Alta, Utah
By Air: Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) offers numerous flights to/from most key U.S. cities serviced by several major and many other airlines. This is the closest major airport to Alta. It’s roughly a 45-minute drive. From the airport, you can opt for various ground transportation options to get to Alta.
Ground Transportation from SLC Airport
Rental Cars: Several major rental car agencies operate out of SLC. However, if you’re driving in winter, ensure you have an AWD or 4-wheel drive vehicle with winter tires due to snowy and icy conditions.
Shuttle Services, Taxi and Ride-Sharing: Various shuttle services like Canyon Transportationoperate between SLC and Alta, providing both shared and private rides. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft also operate from the airport to Alta.
Local UTA Ski Bus: The Utah Transit Authority operates a ski bus service from various locations in the Salt Lake Valley to Alta during the ski season. This is an eco-friendly and often less stressful option, especially on snowy days.
Train: Amtrak offers service to several locations in Utah, including Ogden and Salt Lake City. From there, you can rent a car or use a local transportation service to get to Alta. The Amtrak California Zephyr line stops in Salt Lake City and runs daily between Chicago and the Bay Area, passing through beautiful parts of the country including the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevadas.
Driving: If you are driving be sure to check the road conditions especially for Little Cottonwood Canyon (SR 210), which leads to Alta. This road can have restrictions or temporary closures during or after snowstorms. Chains, AWD or 4-wheel drive restrictions can be in effect, and it’s crucial to be prepared.
Parking: Be sure to check the Alta Parking Reservations website before you visit as parking can get quite busy on weekends & during the peak ski season and reservations may be required. Always check on parking availability if you plan to drive yourself.
Lodging and Transportation Packages: Some hotels or lodges in and around Alta might offer transportation as a part of their lodging package, especially if they are slightly away from the main ski areas.
I’ve been to Alta a few times through my years of skiing. Alta sits at the end of Highway 210. The dead-end road is 13 miles long, crosses 64 avalanche paths and has the highest highway avalanche hazard index of any major road in the United States, so be careful! It’s a stunning and beautiful ride, even for the most seasoned local, but must be treated with respect and caution during the winter months.
Alta Mountain Info
Alta is for skiers-only. Snowboarding is not allowed.
Mt. Baldy Elevation: 11,068
Base Elevation: 8,530′
Vertical drop: 2,538′
High Speed Detachable Six Person Ski Lift: 1
High Speed Detachable Quad Ski Lifts: 3
Fixed Double Ski Lifts: 2
People Mover or Transfer Tow: 1
Number of Trails: 119 | 15% Beginner, 30% Intermediate, 55% Expert
Total Acreage: 2,614 Acres
Average Annual Snowfall: 538 inches
Alta’s First-Timers Guide To Skiing Alta web page is a great way to get familiar with all that Alta has to offer – I highly recommend it!
Parking at Alta
Parking reservations are required at Alta Ski Area and the Town of Alta: Friday-Sunday & Holidays from 8am-1pm. The parking reservation system provides Alta skiers the assurance that there will be a parking space before driving up the canyon as Alta skiers will no longer need to arrive hours before first chair to secure a parking spot. This eases early morning traffic congestion and manages the ski experience by limiting the number of skiers to available terrain & lift capacity.
Alta has two base areas. The first as you drive in is the Wildcat Base Area. Intermediate and expert skiers typically park in the Wildcat parking lot and use the Goldminer’s Daughter Lodge as their home base.
If you drive a short distance past the Wildcat Base Area you arrive at the Albion Base Area. The Albion Base Area is ideal for beginners, families and those who are enrolling in a ski lesson with the Alf Engen Ski School. The family-friendly Albion Grill is located in the Albion Day Lodge where you can get breakfast to fuel your morning or a delicious lunch to refuel midday, this slope-side cafeteria-style grill has you covered.
Alta.com says: Indoor and outdoor seating with beautiful views of Albion Basin and Devil’s Castle. Alf’s is one of the canyon’s most scenic lunch spots and has a great collection of antique skis on display courtesy of the Alf Engen Ski Museum. The Alta History display features photos from the late-1800s through the present. It is definitely worth your visit.
Alta.com says: The Watson Cafe is located mid-mountain in the Watson Shelter, next to the Collins angle station and below the top of the Wildcat lift. The Watson Cafe has two levels of indoor seating and an outdoor deck with incredible views. This is an excellent place for a midday refuel for intermediate to expert skiers.
Alta Lodging
Mountain Collective is an unprecedented collaboration of inspirational and independent ski mountains. As a Mountain Collective passholder, you can enjoy lodging discounts at many of the independently-owned lodging providers of Alta.
Nestled at the foot of Alta Ski Resort and a short shuttle from Snowbird, the Goldminer’s Daughter Lodge is your home away from home while you ski the steepest and deepest Utah has to offer.
Alta’s Rustler Lodge is located in the town of Alta, Utah. It is at the base of the Alta Ski Resort, which boasts of 500 inches of “the greatest snow on Earth” annually. Alta is 45 minutes southeast of both the Salt Lake International Airport and Salt Lake City.
The great thing about skiing in the Salt Lake City area is all the lodging options! Pay as little or as much as you like on lodging.
I think I’ll stay here as it fits my budget just right! Wyndhamhotels.com says: Located off I-15, our Super 8 South Jordan/Sandy/SLC Area hotel near Thanksgiving Point combines the best of value and convenience. We offer comfortable, affordable accommodations whether you are with us just one night, or plan to stay and enjoy the area.
Alta Food & Drink
Located on 20 elegant acres at the mouth of Little Cottonwood Canyon, La Caille offers an unmatched experience and atmosphere. The restaurant, Grand Pavilion, and gardens all provide spectacular settings for your dinner or private party. Stroll through the three-acre vineyard, enjoy a canyon breeze on the patio, host an unforgettable event, the La Caille is the ideal place.
Franck’s is where world class service and a friendly atmosphere are met with calculated flavor combinations and the freshest ingredients. Every night brings a dining experience that your taste buds will dance for even the most educated of palates. The Menu is presented with an approachable selection of flavors that bring depth and complexity to your dining experience. An approach to flavor that will surprise and delight palates of every type.
The great thing about skiing in Utah is all the Food & Drink options. I love it as I can go out and get something cheap and quick, or go to a real nice high end place if I want!
Alta Tickets & Passes
Day and Multi-day lift tickets are available for purchase online. Skip the ticket line and grab your lift ticket(s) at one of Alta’s NEW Ticket Pick-Up Boxes at either Albion or Wildcat Ticket Offices.
Great news – Alta is an Ikon Pass member for the 2024-2025 season! No Reservations needed! Check out all the Ikon and Alta details here.
Alta is once again a Mountain Collective Pass member for the 2024-2025 ski season. No Reservations needed.
Alta Other Info & Stuff to Do!
Alta, Utah, primarily known for its fantastic skiing, offers a range of winter activities and attractions for those who may not be as keen on hitting the slopes or are just looking for additional ways to enjoy the season. Here are some fun things to do in or around Alta during the winter:
Snowshoeing: Explore the snowy landscapes at a slower pace by strapping on some snowshoes. Some trails might offer guided tours, making it a fun and educational outing.
Cross-Country Skiing: If downhill skiing isn’t your thing, try the flat terrains with cross-country skiing.
Winter Hiking: Some trails might be accessible during the winter months. Always check with local advisories and come prepared.
Avalanche Education: Alta has an avalanche center, which can be a great place to learn about avalanche safety, especially if you are an adventure enthusiast.
Snowmobiling: Experience the thrill of driving through snow-covered forests and open areas.
Ice Skating: Some nearby areas may have rinks or frozen ponds where you can enjoy ice skating.
Relaxing in Hot Springs: There are several hot springs in Utah, and soaking in these natural hot tubs with snow all around is a magical experience.
Photography: The snow-covered landscapes, alpine trees, and majestic mountains provide the perfect backdrop for winter photography.
Mountain Spa Experience: Indulge in a relaxing spa day, with massages and treatments tailored to rejuvenate after a cold day outdoors.
Visit the Towns: Explore nearby towns like Park City, which offers shopping, dining, galleries, and more.
Nightlife and Dining: Enjoy local cuisine at restaurants or experience the nightlife in nearby areas.
Wildlife Watching: Look for winter wildlife, which might include deer, moose, and various birds.
Dog Sledding: While not as common, you might find opportunities for dog sledding in the vicinity.
Sleigh Rides: Enjoy a romantic or family-friendly sleigh ride through the snowy landscape.
Winter Festivals and Events: Check the local calendar for any winter festivals, workshops, or special events happening during your stay.
Stargazing: Winter skies can be especially clear, making it an excellent time for stargazing.
When planning any outdoor winter activity, it’s essential to consider safety. Winter weather can change rapidly, and some activities require knowledge about the terrain and conditions. Always inform someone of your plans and expected return time, carry essential gear, and dress appropriately for the cold.
