Comprehensive Overview of Ski Resorts in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah
Little Cottonwood Canyon, located just outside of Salt Lake City, Utah, is home to two world-renowned ski resorts: Alta and Snowbird. Both resorts offer exceptional skiing experiences, with diverse terrain, impressive snowfall, and a range of amenities to cater to skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
What are the Best Ski Resorts in Little Cottonwood Canyon?
The two premier ski resorts in Little Cottonwood Canyon are Alta Ski Resort and Snowbird Ski Resort. Both resorts are known for their exceptional snow quality, challenging terrain, and stunning mountain scenery.
Alta Ski Resort
- Terrain Types: Alta is renowned for its steep and challenging terrain, with 35% of its runs classified as expert, 40% as intermediate, and 25% as beginner.
- Skiable Acreage: Alta boasts 2,200 acres of skiable terrain.
- Lift System: The resort features 10 lifts, including a high-speed quad and several triple chairs.
- Notable Amenities: Alta is a skier-only resort, focusing on traditional skiing experiences. It offers a variety of dining options, such as the Shallow Shaft Restaurant and Alta Java.
Snowbird Ski Resort
- Terrain Types: Snowbird has a diverse range of terrain, with 35% of its runs classified as expert, 38% as intermediate, and 27% as beginner.
- Skiable Acreage: Snowbird has 2,500 acres of skiable terrain.
- Lift System: The resort features an iconic aerial tram, which takes skiers to the summit, as well as 11 other lifts.
- Notable Amenities: Snowbird is known for its steep terrain and offers a variety of dining options, including The Summit Restaurant and the Tram Club.
What Dining Options are Available at the Ski Resorts in Little Cottonwood Canyon?
Both Alta and Snowbird offer a range of dining options to cater to the diverse tastes of their visitors.
Dining Options at Alta
- Fine Dining: Shallow Shaft Restaurant
- Casual Dining: Alta Java, Goldminer’s Daughter
- Average Meal Price: $15-$30
Dining Options at Snowbird
- Fine Dining: The Aerie, The Summit Restaurant
- Casual Dining: Tram Club, General Gritts deli
- Average Meal Price: $15-$30
What Accommodation Options are Available at the Ski Resorts in Little Cottonwood Canyon?
Both Alta and Snowbird offer a variety of accommodation options, ranging from hotels and lodges to vacation rentals.
Accommodation Options at Alta
- Types of Lodging: Hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals
- Price Range: $150-$500 per night
- Proximity to Ski Lifts: Many options are ski-in/ski-out or within walking distance
- Special Packages: Alta offers various packages, including ski-and-stay deals and discounts for early bookings
Accommodation Options at Snowbird
- Types of Lodging: Hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals
- Price Range: $150-$500 per night
- Proximity to Ski Lifts: Many options are ski-in/ski-out or within walking distance
- Special Packages: Snowbird offers packages including ski-and-stay deals, spa packages, and summer activity bundles
What Relevant Factual Data Should I Know About the Ski Resorts in Little Cottonwood Canyon?
- Average Snowfall: Alta receives over 550 inches of snow per season, while Snowbird averages around 500 inches.
- Peak Season Dates: Mid-December to mid-April
- Lift Ticket Prices: Vary depending on the resort and time of year, but typically range from $100-$200 per day
- Rules and Regulations: Alta is a skier-only resort, and both resorts have strict avalanche safety protocols in place, including interlodge restrictions during high-risk periods.
Reference Links
- https://www.vacationrentalsparkcity.com/ski-resorts-cottonwood-canyon/
- https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/snow-sports/alta-snowbird-interloge-little-cottonwood-canyon-snowfall/
- https://www.visitsaltlake.com/mountain-resorts/little-cottonwood/