ALTA
Boasting a whopping ten world-class ski resorts within an hour ’ s drive of Salt Lake City International Airport ( SLC ), Utah has quite deservedly won its place atop the list of most popular ski destinations in America . It is even more compelling that Alta , one of the oldest ski resorts in the country , remains one of the most sought-after ski destinations for both domestic and international travelers primarily thanks to its abundant powder , diverse terrain , and stunning scenery .
Located just 25 miles southeast of Salt Lake City in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah , Alta has been the beneficiary of early and consistent snowfall this season making their slopes even more amiable than usual to the expert skiers who largely favor the resort ’ s notoriously steep black diamond runs and rugged trails . In fact , as of the beginning of the year , Little Cottonwood Canyon — home of Alta — which regularly records an impressive 551 inches of snow per season , had already seen the most season-to-date snowfall of any ski area in North America .
That said , while recent snowfall has been a boon to Alta ’ s patrons , snowboarders are not among them as Alta is ski-only and remains
FLYWASHINGTON . COM 6 SPRING 2023 one of a scant handful of ski resorts in America that prohibits snowboarding . Conversely , the resort is quite accommodating of less experienced skiers , offering the Alta ski school and providing plenty of green runs where novice skiers can find their footing .
In terms of accommodations , Alta offers multiple options within its collection of unique , independently owned lodges , condos , and vacation homes . Notable among Alta ’ s offerings is the rustic Rustler Lodge , which was named a 2022 “ Travelers ’ Choice Best of the Best ” award winner in Top Mountain Lodges & Resorts , ranking first out of 25 . In addition to ski-in / ski-out access to all Alta ski lift base facilities , this storied 75 year-old property also offers 85 guest rooms and operates on a modified American food plan , which includes breakfast and dinner in the room rates .
Another exceptional option in Alta is the old-school Alta Lodge , which prides itself on its old-fashioned bonafides . Built in 1940 , Alta Lodge was the first ski lodge to arrive in Little Cottonwood Canyon and still recalls the charms of a simpler time . In this cozy property dubbed “ the ultimate ski lodge ” by Forbes , you won ’ t find televisions in any of the rooms . There are only two TVs on the entire property . However , you will find a plethora of books and board games for entertainment purposes , as well as intimate banter with fellow guests and ski enthusiasts at the classic Sitzmark Club which was recently named “ The Coziest Damn Ski Bar We ’ ve Ever Been To ” by SkiMag . com .
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