Snowbird/Alta: Powder Paradise and Affordable Skiing in the Wasatch Mountains

Overview: Ski Some of the Best Terrain in North America

Nestled in the heart of Utah’s Wasatch Mountains, Snowbird and Alta are synonymous with legendary powder and world-class terrain. These twin resorts offer some of the most reliable snow and best ski terrain in North America, making them an ideal destination for those seeking epic skiing. The two resorts do connect and are both available with Ikon Pass tickets. Alta is a skiers only resort meaning snowboarders will need to opt for the larger resort; Snowbird.  With a reputation for deep powder and expansive runs, these resorts cater to expert skiers and snowboarders while still offering options for beginners and intermediates. But despite the resort’s premier status, there are ways to make this trip more affordable.

What Makes This Trip Affordable?

1. The Mountain Collective Pass

While this trip requires a season pass to get a discount on it is still a tremendous value. A mountain collective pass earns you 2 days at each resort. This makes it possible to ski each of these resorts for less than walk-up pricing. Great News is that you also earn a season pass that gives you additional days at other amazing resorts.

2. Stay in Cottonwood Heights – Affordable Accommodations Close to the Resort

Unlike other Utah Resorts, Snowbird/Alta are more accessible from the suburbs of Salt Lake City. Therefore you can stay in the affordable enclave of hotels in Cottonwood Hts. Located just 15-20 minutes from the slopes, you can easily commute to Cottonwood Canyon each morning to experience some of North America’s best terrain. These options are not available for resorts in nearby Park City, which is a longer commute from Salt Lake City. Since Snowbird and Alta are not resorts catering to skiers looking for bustling villages or lively Apres Ski scenes, you do not miss out on much by staying 15 minutes away.

Terrain Overview: Why You’ll Love Snowbird and Alta

1. Reliable Snow:

Alta and Snowbird are famous for their snow reliability. Known as the "Wasatch Powder Belt," this region receives more than 500 inches of snow annually, making it one of the most consistent destinations for powder enthusiasts. The unique geography of the area funnels moisture directly into the mountains, ensuring that the slopes stay packed with fresh snow all season long.

2. Mineral Basin: One of the Best Bowls in the World

If you’re an expert skier or snowboarder, you won’t want to miss Mineral Basin at Snowbird. This large, rugged bowl offers some of the best skiing in the world, with steep chutes, powder-filled trees, and wide-open slopes. Mineral Basin is known for its extreme terrain, which makes it a favorite among thrill-seekers. Whether you’re dropping into a tight couloir or carving down a wide open slope, this area offers some of the most breathtaking and challenging terrain in North America.

3. Top-to-Bottom Runs and Bowl Skiing:

Snowbird and Alta also offer both top-to-bottom full vertical runs for skiers and snowboarders who want to experience the full length of the mountain in a single run. The Snowbird Tram provides a breathtaking ride to the top of Hidden Peak, where you can access runs that span more than 3,000 vertical feet. From there, head into bowls, trees, or groomers—there’s something for every skill level.

4. Mountain Stats:

  • Skiable Terrain: 2,500 acres (combined between Snowbird and Alta)

  • Vertical Drop: 3,240 feet (Snowbird) / 2,538 feet (Alta)

  • Annual Snowfall: 500+ inches

Getting There

Fly into Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), which is the nearest major airport to Snowbird. The airport is just a short drive or shuttle ride away, making it a convenient choice for travelers flying in from other states or internationally. The trip will be about 30 minutes to your accommodations or 45 minutes of driving directly to the mountain.

Estimated Costs

The cost of a ski trip can vary depending on flight prices, accommodation, and travel dates. Below are sample itineraries with cost per person, assuming a trip for two and a weekend schedule (skiing both Saturday and Sunday)

Important Considerations:

  1. All costs are calculated per person based on two travelers.

  2. The cost includes both weekend stays and lift tickets.

  3. These estimates assume no travel on ski days, and travel is considered outside of your ski schedule.

Pro tip: To save even more, consider skiing during the week, traveling with a larger group, Skiing and flying the same day, or booking during off-peak times.

Sample Trips

2-Day Ski Trip Itinerary (Thursday to Sunday or Friday to Monday) with Epic Day Pass

For a 2-day trip to Snowbird/Alta, here’s an estimated breakdown:

  • Mountain Collective Pass or Salt Lake Super Pass (3 or 4 days of skiing)

  • Accommodation (3-night stay): $170 per person per night

Total Estimated Costs for 2 Days:

  • Accommodation: $170

  • Total per person: $439

3-Day Ski Trip

For those wanting to extend their trip to 3 days at Snowbird/Alta, here’s an estimate for a 4-night stay:

  • Mountain Collective Pass or Salt Lake Super Pass (3 or 4 days of skiing)

  • Accommodation (4-night stay): $225

Total Estimated Costs for 3 Days:

  • Accommodation: $235

  • Total per person: $624

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