Alta Chalets Blog

Some days just call for a picnic. A packed cooler, a cozy blanket, and a spot with mountain views? That’s our kind of afternoon. Here in Utah, Little and Big Cottonwood Canyons are two of the best spots around Salt Lake City to plan a laid-back outdoor meal. While Little Cottonwood Canyon doesn’t have traditional picnic areas (think firepits and pavilions), there are still plenty of places to spread out...

Little Cottonwood Canyon near Salt Lake City offers climbers iconic trad routes, boulders, and ice climbs on world-class granite with a rich climbing history.

Tucked high in the Wasatch Mountains at the top of Little Cottonwood Canyon, Albion Basin, is where nature puts on a show. Just minutes from Alta Chalets and an easy drive from Salt Lake City, this alpine spot is known for its summer wildflowers, stunning views, and outdoor adventures all year long. From peaceful hikes and mountain bike rides to powder-filled ski days, Albion Basin offers something for every kind...

When planning a romantic escape, couples often seek a destination with spectacular scenery, cozy settings, and plenty of activities to enjoy together. Alta, located within Utah’s Little Cottonwood Canyon, checks all these boxes. This charming mountain town offers peace, privacy, and plenty of adventure, making it an ideal backdrop for couples seeking quality time together. Whether skiing hand-in-hand through fresh powder in winter or strolling among colorful wildflowers in summer,...

Alta isn’t just another ski resort; it’s a powder skier’s dream. It’s a place where the fresh snow piles up deep, the runs stay fresh, and the stories of epic ski days never stop. With an average annual snowfall of around 545 inches, it’s no wonder this Little Cottonwood Canyon in Utah spot consistently ranks as one of North America’s top ski destinations. If you’re planning a trip and wondering...

Every skier dreams of that one perfect run – a mix of adrenaline, challenge, and pure, unfiltered joy. At Alta Ski Area, that run is the Main Chute on Mount Baldy. The Main Chute is legendary among skiers.  From the thrilling bootpack hike to the heart-pounding descent, this run is one of Alta’s crowning jewels and a must for anyone looking to experience the best of what Little Cottonwood Canyon...

Utah’s claim to fame as a ski destination isn’t just its fluffy powder in the Wasatch Mountains—it’s the sheer variety and accessibility of its world-class ski resorts. As a known skier’s paradise, Utah is renowned for its breathtaking mountains, world-class resorts, and the “Greatest Snow on Earth.” But why settle for just one mountain resort when you can explore multiple? With various multi-resort ski passes available, planning a ski trip...

Winter is almost here, so it’s time to start planning your wintertime adventures! If you’re looking to add some adrenaline to your Snowbird, Utah winter vacation, snowmobiling is an activity that promises adrenaline rushes, stunning snowy views of the Wasatch Mountains, and heart-pounding fun!  With snow-capped peaks, world-class trails, and breathtaking views, snowmobile tours and rentals near Snowbird offer an unforgettable adventure for all experience levels.  Whether you’re a snowmobiling...

If you’re planning a ski trip to Utah’s renowned Wasatch Mountains, you’re likely weighing the merits of two iconic Utah ski areas: Alta and Snowbird. Located just a few miles apart, these neighboring resorts offer some of the best skiing in North America. Both destinations have world-class skiing, breathtaking scenery, and an abundance of powder that will make any snow enthusiast’s heart skip a beat.  But which one should you...

If you’re seeking an adventure that combines breathtaking views, a touch of challenge, and the reward of a beautiful waterfall and gorgeous views, the Bell Canyon Trail in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest is a must-explore. Located in the Salt Lake Valley and only a 30-minute drive from Salt Lake City, this trail is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a...

Camping around Salt Lake City offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and scenic beauty—all without having to trek to super-rural wilderness areas. Whether you’re seeking a quiet retreat in nature or an action-packed weekend with family and friends, the campgrounds around Salt Lake City have something for everyone. While camping around Salt Lake City offers an incredible way to connect with nature, we understand that sometimes you want to...

Are you looking for the best Utah rock climbing spots? If you’re an avid rock climber or simply seeking an exhilarating outdoor experience, Utah’s rugged landscapes offer endless climbing opportunities. From world-renowned destinations like Moab and Zion National Park to hidden gems in the Wasatch Mountains, Utah’s climbing spots cater to all skill levels.  At Alta Chalets, we’re all about creating unforgettable vacation experiences. No matter your climbing style or...

Something magical happens in Utah when summertime comes around.  The earth wakes up, wildlife emerges from their winter homes, and wildflowers bloom in endless colors across the landscape.  The allure of Utah’s breathtaking landscapes, especially this time of year, attracts locals and tourists alike. From towering snow-capped peaks to pristine alpine lakes, our state offers a wealth of summer hiking opportunities that cater to adventurers of all skill levels. In...

As the snow melts and vibrant spring colors emerge in Utah’s majestic Wasatch Mountains, a thrilling adventure awaits atop Hidden Peak. While winter in Utah typically steals the spotlight with its powdery slopes, spring and summer unveil a new world of beauty waiting to be explored. And one of the best ways to explore is by taking the Snowbird Tram! The scenic aerial tram is more than just transportation for...

Utah’s diverse landscapes, ranging from alpine meadows to desert canyons, offer a stunning array of wildflowers. Here are 10 of the most common and captivating wildflowers you can find in Utah from Salt Lake City across Northern Utah. 1. Heartleaf Arnica Heartleaf Arnica is a delicate wildflower that stands less than 12 inches tall. It’s characterized by its heart-shaped leaves and bright yellow flowers, which are approximately two inches in...

With quality powder and incredible mountain scenery, it’s no wonder the Alta ski area has a reputation for great skiing. For over 80 years, Alta has been one of America’s prime destinations for skiers of every skill level. New snow accumulation in the 2023/24 ski season proves it is still one of the best ski experiences. So far, Little and Big Cottonwood Canyon has seen one incredible powder day after...

As the snow melts and temperatures rise, Snowbird Utah becomes a prime destination for summertime adventures. Visitors will find a wide array of summer activities, including the Alpine Slide, mountain biking, and some of the most incredible hiking Utah has to offer. Get your heart pumping on the Mountain coaster or help the kiddos conquer the mini ropes course and build lasting family memories. Whatever you decide to do, the...

Although some people feel the effects of altitude sickness more than others, the majority of visitors to Utah have no symptoms or only experience a minor headache for a day.  The Snowbird and Alta ski areas offer some of the best powder skiing in North America. Located only about 30 minutes North of Salt Lake International Airport, the Snowbird ski resort area is a popular destination for all kinds of...

With thousands of acres of ski terrain and what enthusiasts call “the greatest snow on earth,” it’s no wonder Utah attracts skiers from all over the world. In fact, the 2022-2023 ski season was the snowiest on record, with over 903″ of snow in the Alta ski area alone! That much snow makes for some pretty stunning scenery and incredible ski spots – if you know where to look. Read...

Imagine a destination where the majesty of the Wasatch Mountain peaks serves as a backdrop to your dining adventures! While we offer the ultimate in comfort and luxury at Alta Chalets with food stocking, gourmet kitchens, and private chef services, there are some compelling reasons to venture out and explore the local resort restaurants in Alta and Snowbird.  The Alta and Snowbird ski towns boast a treasure trove of culinary...

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...

As summer bows gracefully to the crisp embrace of autumn, there’s a reason nature enthusiasts and leaf peepers across the globe turn their gaze toward the Beehive State. Utah is known for its breathtaking natural beauty which transforms into a tapestry of vibrant colors in autumn, setting the stage for unforgettable adventures and fall foliage experiences.  There are endless ways to experience fall colors in Utah. Explore any of the...

Whether you’re seeking natural beauty, exhilarating outdoor activities, or a glimpse into the past of Utah’s storied valleys and canyons, Little Cottonwood Canyon has it all! Utah’s Cottonwood Canyons are nestled in the Wasatch Mountains on the east side of the Salt Lake Valley, an easy drive from Salt Lake City yet a world apart, offering captivating beauty and serene seclusion.  Little Cottonwood Creek Trail  Stretching 3 miles from the...

This 4th of July holiday weekend, why not pack up the car, pick your favorite patriotic playlist, and leave the city lights behind on a scenic road trip to celebrate Independence Day in the wildflower-filled Wasatch Mountains? Who knows, you could be making history snowboarding or skiing the slopes of Snowbird Resort on July 4th!    Summer in Utah’s Cottonwood Canyons is heaven on earth for hikers, bikers, and nature lovers...