Alta, Utah
Offer Expires
31-May-2025
Alta Overview:
Alta Ski Area is a legendary ski-only resort located in Little Cottonwood Canyon, just 45 minutes from Salt Lake City. Sitting at 2,600 metres elevation with over 13 metres of annual snowfall, Alta is world-renowned for its light, dry powder—often called the "Greatest Snow on Earth®." Established in 1938, Alta is one of the oldest ski resorts in the US and retains a charming, no-frills atmosphere. It’s a haven for advanced skiers who love steeps, chutes, and off-piste terrain. Alta is also skiers-only—no snowboarding allowed—preserving a traditional ski culture and vibe.
Where to stay:
Accommodation at Alta is cosy and ski-in, ski-out, with a handful of classic alpine lodges:
Alta Lodge: known for its welcoming, family-style hospitality and slope-side location.
Rustler Lodge: luxury lodge with an outdoor heated pool, spa, and gourmet dining.
Snowpine Lodge: beautifully renovated with modern comforts, full-service spa, and mountain views.
Many visitors also stay down the canyon in Sandy or Salt Lake City for more budget-friendly or chain hotel options.
Skiing Alta:
Alta is a "ski-only" resort which offers over 890 hectares of terrain, with 118 runs served by 6 chairlifts. The mountain is best suited to intermediate and advanced skiers, with incredible powder-filled bowls, tight tree skiing, and challenging steeps. Beginners have access to a few gentle slopes near Albion Base. Alta’s famous backcountry access draws powder hounds keen on earning fresh tracks, while groomers are limited but high quality. Snowboarding is not permitted at Alta, but snowboarders can head next door to Snowbird.
Getting Around Alta:
Once in Alta, everything is walkable or accessible via free shuttles. If staying in Salt Lake City or Sandy, UTA Ski Buses run regularly up Little Cottonwood Canyon during winter. Driving is possible but subject to chain laws or 4WD requirements after storms.
Getting to Alta:
Fly from Australia into Salt Lake City International Airport (via Los Angeles, Dallas, or San Francisco). From the airport, it’s a 45-minute transfer by shuttle or rental car to Alta Ski Area. Book shared shuttles in advance for hassle-free access up Little Cottonwood Canyon, especially during snowy conditions.
Top Things to Do in Winter
Beyond skiing, enjoy:
Backcountry touring from the resort boundary
Snowshoeing trails near the Albion Base
Visiting Wasatch Powderbird Guides for heli-skiing
Scenic photography of Alta’s iconic peaks and wild snowstorms
Most activities here are snow-focused—Alta is all about skiing and snow culture.
Dining & Après
Alta keeps après-ski authentic and low-key, perfect for those who want to unwind without crowds:
The Sitzmark Bar at Alta Lodge – legendary après spot with cosy alpine vibes.
Alta Rustler Lounge at Rustler Lodge – upscale drinks and mountain views.
Goldminer’s Daughter Lodge – casual pub fare and beer near the Wildcat base.
Dining is mostly lodge-based, offering hearty, warming meals perfect after a powder day. No sprawling après scene—just good food, relaxed bars, and powder storytelling.
