Nestled within the majestic Wasatch Mountains of Utah, Snowbird stands as a true winter paradise for skiers, snowboarders, and off-slope adventurers. The Snowbird Resort area is located just 27 miles from the bustling heart of Salt Lake City along Utah Highway 210, more commonly known as Little Cottonwood Canyon Scenic Drive.
With over 500 inches of snow and 60 avalanche paths, Little Cottonwood Canyon Drive is considered one of the most avalanche-prone highways in North America. During the winter season, visitors may see challenging driving conditions, peak-season congestion, and, perhaps, the Little Cottonwood Canyon’s iconic Interlodge in Alta – yet the stream of traffic to Snowbird is constant.
Here’s the scoop on the best way to get to Snowbird (plus, where to park!) The journey through Utah’s Little Cottonwood Canyon is undeniably worth the breathtaking and adventurous reward it promises.
Reaching Snowbird Resort by Air
The most convenient way to kickstart your Snowbird adventure is by taking a flight to Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). This modern, well-equipped, and newly revamped airport ensures a hassle-free arrival for skiers and snowboarders traveling from both the east and west coasts. Major airlines including Alaska, American, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, United, and their affiliates all serve Salt Lake City International Airport, making it easy to find a flight that suits your schedule.
Driving to Snowbird
For those who prefer the flexibility of driving, Snowbird Resort is easily accessible by car, although it’s essential to prepare for winter conditions and the possibility of an Interlodge. Interlodge is a safety protocol implemented during periods of significant snowfall or avalanche risk in the Little Cottonwood Canyon. During Interlodge, all travel on Scenic Highway 210 is temporarily restricted. The roads are closed, and all guests in Alta and Snowbird are required to remain inside their rental accommodations until the Interlodge restriction is lifted.
When driving to Snowbird, stay up to date with the Cottonwood Canyon road conditions and ensure your vehicle is equipped for winter conditions. The Utah Department of Transportation Traction Laws require vehicles entering the Cottonwood Canyons from November 1st to May 1st to have 4WD or AWD; 4WD/AWD vehicles are to be fitted with snow tires. 2-wheel drive vehicles are required to carry snow chains or have 3 peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) tires on all four tires.
Driving to Snowbird from Salt Lake City
Car rentals are readily available at Salt Lake City International Airport, and the drive from Salt Lake City to Snowbird Resort typically takes around 45 minutes – without factoring in an Interlodge adventure. From Salt Lake City International Airport, head south on I-15, take the exit at 9000 South in Sandy Utah, and travel approximately 8 miles east to connect with Scenic Highway 210 into Little Cottonwood Canyon.
Driving to Snowbird from Park City
Driving to Snowbird Resort from Park City? Take UT-224 west and head north to I-80. On I-80 from Park City, head west toward the Salt Lake Valley. Get off at Exit 6 (6200 South), head east towards the mountain. This will lead you to UT-210 and up Little Cottonwood Canyon to Snowbird Resort and the Alta Ski Area.
Ski Shuttles & Private Transport to Snowbird Resort
At Alta Chalets, we’re steadfast in our commitment to making your winter vacation exceptional! The Alta-Snowbird area is small with a free shuttle service operating throughout ski season. Due to the tough winter driving conditions, regular congestion on scenic route 210, and limited parking availability, we encourage guests to take advantage of the convenient public and private transport to and around Snowbird Resort, with options for every group size and budget! Advance reservations are essential during ski season.
Alta Shuttle
Phone: (801) 274-0225
Pricing: From $47
Daily shuttle service from SLC airport every 20-30 minutes from 8 AM to midnight, returning every hour from 4:45 AM to 8:45 PM. There are 3 different pricing options – SmartShare, Big Picture Rate (for groups of 3 or more), and Private Vehicle packages with options for up to groups of 13. Price increase on November 1st – book soon!
Alpine Transportation
Phone: (801) 410-4001
Pricing: From $160
Private luxury SUV Salt Lake City airport transport with door-to-door service to your vacation home or ski chalet in Alta and Snowbird Resort.
Tips for Parking at Snowbird & Alta
Good news for skiers and snowboarders! Lift ticket sales at Alta and Snowbird are never blacked out during ski season. What is limited, is parking reservations at both resorts.
Skiers can hop on the free shuttle to the ski areas, which is generally much easier than paying to park, and when that could be potentially further away and more costly. For the ultimate experience, be sure to book a ski-in/ski-out vacation at Snowbird with Alta Chalets!
Snowbird Resort Parking
Snowbird has various resort parking options. You can park for free on a first-come, first-serve basis in designated lots and carpooling parking areas or secure your spot by paying for reserved daily parking in advance. For an added level of convenience, you can even snag a Preferred Parking Pass with valet service, which we recommend you reserve well in advance.
Stay in the know and keep things hassle-free with the Snowbird App and @SnowbirdAlerts on Twitter, both providing real-time updates on parking lots, chairlift wait times, and trail conditions at our fingertips.
Click HERE for Snowbird Parking Reservations.
Alta Ski Area Parking
Effective Friday, December 15 to Sunday, March 31 (and closing weekend), all skiers at Alta will require reservations for parking between 8 AM to 1 PM for Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and all holiday periods. Reservations are available online for $25 per day and are verified by your license plate, making it simple, affordable, and quick!
Click HERE for Alta Parking Reservations.
Stay in Snowbird with Alta Chalets
Snowbird is amazing, but don’t just take our word for it! Come experience the best of The Bird with our team at Alta Chalets. Forget the lodging options in Salt Lake City, Cottonwood Heights, and Sandy Utah! If Interlodge is implemented during your stay, you’ll be happy you’re cozied up in the comfort of an Alta Chalet waiting to play in the greatest snow on earth!
Book online for the best prices or call our local team today at (801) 424-2426 to experience the best of The Bird!
