Alta Ski Resort

Alta ski resort is renowned for having excellent snowfall combined with some of the most diverse and challenging terrain in North America. Located about a mile up the road from Snowbird in the Little Cottonwood Canyon, Alta Ski Area features 2,200 acres of skiable terrain and averages 560 inches of snowfall each season.

Alta lifts have been open since 1939 and it is one of America’s oldest ski resorts. The Alta Ski Area is one of the three remaining resorts that have banned snowboarders from its slopes. Known for its high base altitude (2,600m) and serious skiing this charming resort has a touch of nostalgia to it with a lively après scene and great value lift tickets.

The ski resorts close proximity to Salt Lake City and partnership with Snowbird resort have created one of Utah’s premier resorts.

At Alta, a variety of awesome terrain and snow conditions provide skiing opportunities for every level of skier, including beginners. Families can enjoy the slopes together no matter their ability or expertise. More uniquely, Alta has teamed up with Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort to enable skiers to have access to double the terrain, which means more fun for everyone.

Alta is located 25 miles southeast of Salt Lake City at the top of Little Cottonwood Canyon, State Highway 210, approximately 50 minutes from the Salt Lake City International Airport.

Call our ski experts to find out more about Alta ski resort, or read our guide to skiing Utah.

Alta Transfer Time
Salt Lake City
Map Marker 0h 50m

Best For...

  • Après ski
  • Expert skiers
  • Hidden gem
  • Powder heaven
  • Short transfers

Resort Statistics

  • Resort Altitude 2,600m
  • Skiing Altitude 3,216m
  • Total Ski Area 112km
  • Lifts 12
  • Blue Runs 28km
  • Red Runs 45km
  • Black Runs 39km
Ski Areas in Alta

Ski Areas in Alta

With the focus alone on skiing, Alta is an accolade of authentic and genuinely fantastic experiences. The resort continually ranks highly for snow quality and overall satisfaction, meaning skiers return year upon year for more. With the AltaSnowbird ski pass, visitors have access to 4,700 acres of pistes across Alta and its neighbouring resort, connected by ski lift.

Skiing in Alta

Skiing in Alta

Alta is known for its amazing scenery, diverse terrain and top-grade snow that it receives season after season. Its high-altitude and long-established spirit mean skiers continue to visit Alta year upon year. The ski resort has been designed to be ‘just for skiers’, meaning the area is totally pedestrianised, except for snow-sliding equipment. Alta has swiftly become a top resort for all generations.

Ski Schools in Alta

Ski Schools in Alta

The Alf Engen Ski School will help you to unlock smoother, more comfortable skiing in no time. Offering lessons for adults and children, as well as private lessons, means that the school caters for every ability. There is also a range of backcountry adventures that can be booked, including heli-skiing.

Restaurants in Alta

Restaurants in Alta

There are a variety of restaurants on and off the mountain. On the slopes, you will find options for a quick snack or fine dining restaurants, if that’s what you prefer. Down in the base area, there is plenty to choose from, with many of the restaurants located within the lodges surrounding the centre.

Après Ski in Alta

Après Ski in Alta

Après ski in the US is more low-key in many areas than its European counterparts. The best places in Alta to socialise after a day on the snow include the Sitzmark Club, a cosy space lined with knotted pine panels and stunning views, The Peruvian Bar (P Dog) and the Goldminer’s Daughter Saloon.

Non-Skiers in Alta ski resort

Non-Skiers

Although Alta is a long distance to travel if you’re a non-skier, it’s a beautiful place to sit and relax and there are activities such as dog sledding, snowmobiling, tubing, and spa days that can be arranged with relative ease.

Map of Alta

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