Alta Ski Area

Many would argue that Alta boasts the ideal blend of spacious steeps, rolling groomers, tight trees and mogul lines. They would be right. There’s something for every type of skier, but those who will truly fall head over heels for Alta are the skiers who crave flow. Side hits are plentiful and the trails seem to cascade with finesse from one to the next.

Alta has two distinct base areas, Wildcat and Albion. The Wildcat Base, on the looker’s right side of the hill, is likely where you’ll start your day. The appropriately named Wildcat lift famously hosts one of the best natural jump lines at any ski area the world over. You’ll likely find any number of your favorite pros from Andrew Pollard to Tim McChesney and Piper Kunst lapping this seasoned zone. Nearby, the Collins Lift is nothing to scoff at. A quick traverse will land you at the top of Alfs High Rustler, commonly known as the one and only High Boy. Simply put, this 45-degree run is a must-hit bucket list bomber for any passionate skier.

Above, the Baldy Chutes are the best extreme skiing at the mountain. A steep half mile hike gives you access to these steeps at the top of Mount Baldy. At 11,000 feet, this stunning view grants you a clear picture of the Wasatch, the Salt Lake Valley and beyond. You could spend your whole season picking apart the terrain on this side of the mountain, but there’s much more to be found heading looker’s left, where the Sugarloaf, Supreme and Sunnyside lifts harbor some of the most slept-on skiing at Alta. Catching Supreme Bowl at rope drop on a powder day is not to be missed, and the fun, rolling terrain of Rollercoaster, Amen and Extrovert are often passed by… but shouldn’t be. 

Linking together runs at Alta is like piecing together a puzzle. Like any mountain, locals all have their own favorite side hits and secret stashes. But here, there are just too many good zones to count. But no matter where you go while the lifts are spinning, there’s only one way to end the day: a High Boy hot lap right to an Alta Bomb (a double shot of espresso dunked into a PBR) at the Goldminer’s Daughter Slopeside Cafe. You’ll thank us later.

Alta is one of the most conveniently located ski areas around. It’s an easy day-long drive from many locations in the Mountain West, and Salt Lake City International Airport has consistent flights from around the country. Once in Salt Lake, head up Little Cottonwood Canyon to the end of the road. 

You’ll need a parking reservation from Friday - Sunday. With closures common in the avalanche-prone canyon, it is best to be ready for an early day. Even if you’re staying at the mountain, be ready as parking and ski area facilities open at 8 AM. With conditions being rugged and unpredictable in LCC, it’s always best to tune into Alta’s social media channels for up-to-date information from UDOT and Alta Ski Patrol regarding closures and terrain openings on stormy days.