
Alta Ski Area
Alta Trail Map
118 Runs
2,538 Feet of Vert
2,614 Skiable Acres
45 Minutes From Salt Lake City
Lodging
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Alta Lodge
A cozy and traditional historic ski lodge with ski-in and ski-out access at the base of Alta Ski Resort.
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Alta Peruvian Lodge
European architecture, breathtaking views and nostalgic charm come together in this all-inclusive ski lodge.
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Alta's Rustler Lodge
Treat yourself after a long day on the slopes at this award-winning, luxury ski lodge that includes heated pools, spas and saunas, fine dining and more.
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Goldminer's Daughter Lodge
At the foot of Alta Ski Resort, this renowned ski lodge offers an authentic ski-in, ski-out experience paired with luxurious accommodations and dining options.
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Snowpine Lodge
Experience a uniquely high-end mountain stay at this ski-in, ski-out lodge that includes two restaurants, a spa and a wide selection of rooms and suites.
Resort Information
Who is Alta For?
Alta is for skiers. This unofficial tagline not only states the obvious — snowboarders are not allowed — it announces a philosophical simplicity of the resort's vibe. Alta’s updated infrastructure exudes a rustic, old-timey charm, which appeases its fan base of no-nonsense, life-is-good skiers of all skill levels. In total, 25 percent of Alta is beginner terrain and 35 percent expert, with a sweet spot of 40 percent for intermediate skiing. Simply put, the one luxury Alta flaunts best is its world-class skiing.
Are Snowboards Allowed?
No, Alta is a ski-only resort. Head to next-door neighbor Snowbird to snowboard.
Backcountry Skiing
Although Alta does not offer backcountry skiing within its boundaries, backcountry enthusiasts can access The Grizzly Gulch trailhead just beyond Alta’s Albion parking lot. Backcountry ski outfitters lead tours of the slopes outside of ski resort boundaries, but take note: backcountry skiing can be dangerous, so take precautions before you go. (Read: "Hiring a Backcountry Ski Guide")
Parking and Transportation
Parking reservations are required on weekends and holidays from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Lots fill often and fill fast, so be sure to make those parking reservations now. To alleviate Little Cottonwood Canyon traffic, Alta parking authorities encourage carpooling (once you’ve made a reservation) or the use of public transportation (free for season pass holders). See more Utah ski vacation tips.
AltaSnowbird Connect
Want to double your terrain? It's easy to get to Snowbird by traversing the Keyhole or through Mineral Basin — an area descriptively described as huge, wide-open bowls of powder. In addition, the scenery of the Alta/Snowbird area is among the most dramatic: Little Cottonwood Canyon's spectacular peaks wrap the resorts in rugged mountain splendor, including American Fork Canyon's Twin Peaks, Mount Superior and the Wasatch Range's most iconic ridgeline, Mount Timpanogos.
Night Skiing
Alta does not offer night skiing.
Restaurants and Places to Relax
Alf’s Restaurant: Invite the whole gang to meet up at Alf’s Restaurant for a mid-day, mid-mountain interlude. Centered in Albion Basin, this family-friendly eatery serves up all the traditional ski eats — burgers, chili, brats and local microbrews. Choose a spot on the sunny deck or inside the lodge alongside a mini-museum of historical Alta photographs and vintage skis.
Watson Shelter: Intermediate and expert skiers take delight in Watson Shelter, a mid-mountain refuge located near the Collins lift angle station. Watson Cafe, on the second level, serves up organic and locally-sourced food options while giving diners a sensational canyon view. Feeling extra special? Make a reservation for a fine-dining lunch experience at Collins Grill on the third level.
Swen’s Restaurant: Ready for refined dining after a day of rustic retreats? Snowpine Lodge houses one of Alta’s newer bistros, Swen’s Restaurant, which offers seasonal dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients. If winter kale salad, surf and turf tartare, braised octopus, roast chicken or mountain trout whets your appetite, take a quick ride on the Snowpine lift to head to the lodge.