We are frequently asked if people should rent a car when visiting Snowbird and Alta. Some guests find that they never use their rental cars once they are at Alta while others can’t imagine not having a car. While there is no clear cut answer to this question, there are a number of questions you can ask yourself that will help you to make your decision. Below is a list of questions along with information on area shuttles. Please feel free to contact our office with questions.
1. Do you have small children? We have found that groups with small children are often happier when they rent a vehicle as this makes dropping kids off at ski school, day care etc… a bit easier than taking the shuttle and having to juggle multiple pairs of skis, children and other gear.
2. What time do your flights arrive and depart? Our check in time is at 4PM and check out at 10AM. We can, at times, accommodate an early check in or late check out but this means an hour or so on either side and must be okayed by our reservations office in advance of your visit. If you arrive early or leave late, a rental vehicle will give you a place to store your bags and base out of on your check in/check out day.
3. Will you want to pick up groceries on your way to Alta? We do offer a grocery stocking service however, if you enjoy doing your own grocery/liquor shopping you will want to do this prior to your arrival at Alta/Snowbird. The easiest options for doing your own grocery shopping are:
Rent a 4WD/AWD vehicle and stop on your way up the canyon and shop (you can also place an online order in advance.)
Book a private shuttle from the airport – the shuttle will charge you $1 per minute wait time but will stop at the grocery store for you (all stops must be arranged in advance).
4. Are you comfortable driving in the snow? We get an average of 500 inches of snow each season and though the roads are well maintained, you may be driving in winter conditions. If you rent a vehicle you will need to rent a 4WD/AWD with a minimum of mud/snow tires.
5. Do you like to go out to dinner a lot and/or visit other areas (other than Alta or Snowbird) while on vacation? If you answered yes, renting a vehicle may be the way to go. The evening shuttle to go to restaurants in the Alta/Snowbird area is free for the 2022/2023 ski season (from 6pm to 10pm) but to get to other resorts outside of Little Cottonwood Canyon can be a little cost prohibitive to go by shuttle.
6. Will you be visiting early/late season? The area shuttles run from mid-December to about the beginning of April. If you will be visiting outside of these times you will want to rent a vehicle.
