Alta
Pristine powder, alpine luxury, and mountain magic await
Highlights
Alta Ski Area was one of the first ski resorts in the United States and the 2nd in the Western ski region, offering legendary terrain and storied ski culture.
A scenic but non-demanding hike through flowery meadows to a hidden alpine lake at 9,850 feet with stunning mountain vistas.
Stay directly on the slopes with immediate access to skiing and enjoy world-class amenities including spas, fine dining, and hot tubs.
Beyond winter skiing, enjoy summer hiking, mountain biking, and guided adventures in Little Cottonwood Canyon.
Rejuvenate with massage, steam rooms, and sauna facilities integrated into luxury lodge properties.
Where to Stay
3 picks
Alta's Rustler Lodge
Top-rated 4.9-star luxury ski-in/ski-out lodge featuring family-friendly amenities, pool, hot tub, steam bath, sauna, on-site dining, and included breakfast. Classic European alpine ambiance with high-quality service.
Snowpine Lodge
Boutique luxury lodge with ski-in/ski-out access, spa and game room, exceptional service, VIP treatment, scenic mountain setting, and intimate atmosphere. #1 Best Value luxury option.
Alta Lodge
Scenic 4.8-star property with ski-in/ski-out access, included breakfast, on-site ski shop, ski lockers, spacious comfortable rooms, hot tubs, sauna, and on-slope viewing from the Saloon bar.
Where to Eat
10 picks
Alta Lodge Dining Room
On-site fine dining with high-quality cuisine, mountain views, and evening service. Included breakfast buffet (cereal, donuts, pancakes, waffles, sausages, oatmeal, fresh fruit, pastries, beverages).
Alta Lodge Saloon Quick Lunch Service
Casual on-slope viewing restaurant serving quick lunch options including sandwiches, salads, and light fare. Watch skiers while enjoying mountain-side meal.
Alta's Rustler Lodge Dining
On-site fine dining featuring diverse, well-portioned cuisine with emphasis on quality ingredients. Included breakfast with lodge stay provides satisfying morning meals.
Snowpine Lodge Casual Dining
In-lodge casual restaurant with diverse menu options, accommodating different preferences and dietary needs with quality preparation.
Alta Peruvian Lodge Casual Dining
On-site restaurant offering diverse menu with well-portioned quality meals. Family-friendly options with excellent service standards.
Snowpine Lodge Fine Dining
Boutique luxury lodge restaurant serving gourmet cuisine with intimate atmosphere. Pairs wine selection with refined mountain dining experience.
Alta Peruvian Lodge Restaurant
On-site dining praised for top-notch amenities and well-prepared, properly-portioned meals. In-house expertise ensures quality dining within lodge property.
Alta's Rustler Lodge Casual Dining
On-site restaurant with family-friendly options and relaxed atmosphere. Quality cuisine in comfortable setting ideal for mid-trip meals.
Snowpine Lodge Breakfast (if not included)
Quality morning meal at boutique property featuring fresh ingredients, prepared options, and beverages to fuel mountain activities.
Alta Lodge Fine Dining
Evening fine dining with elevated mountain cuisine, excellent presentation, and wine pairings. Intimate atmosphere with mountain views.
What to Do
11 picks
Alta Ski Area
Historic ski resort featuring legendary terrain, varied runs for all skill levels, and authentic American ski culture. Enjoy powder runs, scenic views, and the heritage of one of the nation's first ski areas.
Alta Ski Area
Continue enjoying varied terrain, perfect for skill progression, testing different runs, and maximizing vertical descent.
Alta Ski Shop and Demo Center
On-site equipment rental and ski shop with demo options. Rent or test premium skis and snowboards with expert staff guidance for optimal performance.
Alta Lodge Saloon Bar & Slope Viewing
On-site bar with direct slope views, casual dining, and apres-ski atmosphere. Watch the mountain while enjoying drinks and light fare in authentic ski lodge setting.
Stillwell Spa
Full-service spa featuring massage therapy, steam rooms, sauna, and wellness treatments. Relax and recover after skiing with professional therapeutic services.
Lodge Hot Tub & Relaxation
Enjoy on-property hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms available at luxury lodges. Perfect for evening relaxation and muscle recovery.
Cecret Lake Trail
Non-demanding hiking trail through flowery alpine meadows leading to a hidden lake at 9,850 feet. Scenic, accessible mountain experience with stunning views. Approximately 3-mile round trip.
Alta Ski Area
Third full ski day focusing on favorite terrain, challenging runs, or skill development on specific mountain sections.
Little Cottonwood Canyon Scenic Drive
Stunning canyon drive from Salt Lake City to Alta featuring dramatic mountain scenery, hiking trailheads, and alpine forest landscape. Beautiful year-round for photography and sightseeing.
Powderbird Guides
IFMGA and AMGA certified mountain guides offering custom skiing, climbing, and guided mountain adventures. Specialized expertise for private tours and tailored mountain experiences.
Alta Children's Center Area Exploration
Family-friendly mountain area with varied terrain and scenic viewpoints. Explore gentle slopes and scenic areas suitable for relaxed afternoon activity.
Good to Know
8 picks
Peak Season Timing
February offers excellent late-season skiing with substantial snow depth, fewer crowds than January, and optimal powder conditions while approaching spring.
Included Breakfast Strategy
Alta Lodge, Alta Peruvian Lodge, and Alta's Rustler Lodge all include breakfast. Plan stays at these properties to simplify mornings and maximize dining value within budget.
Ski-in/Ski-out Access
All recommended lodges offer direct slope access. Ski directly from your room door and return for lunch, spa, or evening relaxation without transportation.
Little Cottonwood Canyon Weather Awareness
Canyon access road can close during heavy snow events. Monitor road conditions before daily travel and have flexible activity plans accounting for possible closures.
On-Site Equipment Rental
Alta Ski Shop and Demo Center located at lodging area. Rent or demo equipment immediately upon arrival without separate trips, and try premium skis before committing.
Spa & Recovery Planning
Stillwell Spa and lodge hot tubs/saunas provide essential muscle recovery between ski days. Book spa services in advance during peak season for preferred timing.
Apres-Ski Tradition
Alta has authentic apres-ski culture centered on lodge bars and hot tubs. Plan evening relaxation in hot tubs with mountain views as part of the ski experience.
Guidebook: First Ski Resort Legacy
Alta Ski Area was one of America's first ski areas and the 2nd in the Western region. Skiing techniques have evolved but the passion and authentic mountain culture remain.
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