Quick Facts
- Country
- United States
- Region
- Wasatch Range
- Base altitude
- 2,600m
- Peak altitude
- 3,216m
- Total pistes
- 97 km
- Total lifts
- 11
- Season
- November 22 to April 12
- Ski pass
- ikon
- Nearest airport
- Salt Lake City (SLC), 0h 45min transfer
- Snow reliability
- 9/10
Plan Your Trip
The closest major airport is Salt Lake City (SLC), with a ~45m transfer to the resort.
Prices are indicative. Book early for the best fares.
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Budget Planner for Alta
Accommodation tier
Include in estimate
Estimated costs for 2 travelers, 7 nights, Mid-range · via Salt Lake City (SLC)
Estimates based on typical United States market rates (pricing multiplier: 1.2x). Prices vary by travel dates, availability, and booking lead time. Always check current prices before booking.
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About Alta
Alta is a skiers-only resort — snowboarding has never been permitted on its slopes — and one of the oldest and most beloved ski areas in the American West, operating since 1939 in Little Cottonwood Canyon above Salt Lake City. Its reputation rests on three pillars: phenomenal natural snowfall averaging 500 inches per season of Utah's celebrated cold, dry powder; uncommonly steep and challenging terrain including the legendary High Traverse and Baldy Face; and a pricing philosophy that has kept lift passes significantly below the industry average, making it the best value expert ski destination in the Wasatch. The absence of a resort village — Alta has a handful of lodges and nothing else — means the skiing is the entire point, and the skiers who return year after year to fill those lodges are among the most committed and knowledgeable in North America.
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Resort Ratings
Common Questions
Alta: Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Alta good for beginners?
- Alta scores 5/10 for beginner suitability. Some beginner terrain is available, but the resort's primary focus is intermediate and advanced skiing. First-time skiers will find the options more limited than at resorts built around learning. Ski school instruction is available and recommended for anyone starting out here.
- When does Alta open and close for the 2026/27 ski season?
- Alta typically opens in November and runs through April, based on recent seasons. The 2026/27 opening and closing dates have not yet been confirmed by the resort. Exact dates vary year to year depending on snowfall and conditions. Check the resort's official website as the season approaches for confirmed dates.
- Which ski pass covers Alta?
- Alta is covered by the ikon. This pass may also include access to other linked resorts depending on which tier you purchase. Pricing and blackout dates vary by season; check the pass provider's official site for 2026/27 rates and the full list of included resorts.
- How do I get to Alta?
- The nearest major airport to Alta is Salt Lake City (SLC). The transfer to the resort takes approximately 45 minutes by road. Private transfers, shared shuttles, and rental cars are all available from the airport. Mountain roads can be affected by heavy snowfall in winter, so checking conditions before traveling is advisable.
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