What airport should I fly into, and do I need a 4WD/AWD vehicle?

Fly into Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). Alta is approximately a 45-minute drive, weather and traffic dependent. If you are driving yourself, you must have a four-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicle with at least mud/snow tires. We get over 500 inches of snow a year, and the Utah Department of Transportation frequently restricts Little Cottonwood Canyon to 4WD/AWD only. Without it, you will not be permitted up the canyon under any circumstance. Alta Chalets can also arrange airport transportation through our concierge services, which removes the vehicle question entirely.

Do I need to rent a car when I visit Alta/Snowbird?

Some guests never use their rental cars once they are at Alta, while others can't imagine not having one. There is no clear-cut answer, but these questions can help you decide. Please contact our office with any questions. Do you have small children? Groups with small children are often happier with a vehicle, because dropping kids off at ski school or day care is easier than taking the shuttle with multiple pairs of skis, children and other gear. What time do your flights arrive and depart? Check-in is at 4 PM and check-out at 10 AM. We can sometimes accommodate an early check-in or late check-out (about an hour on either side), but it must be approved by our reservations office in advance. If you arrive early or leave late, a rental vehicle gives you a place to store your bags and base out of. Will you want to pick up groceries on your way to Alta? We offer a grocery stocking service. If you prefer to do your own grocery and liquor shopping, do it before you arrive at Alta/Snowbird. The easiest options are to rent a 4WD/AWD vehicle and shop on your way up the canyon (you can also place an online order in advance), or to book a private shuttle from the airport. The shuttle charges $1 per minute of wait time and will stop at the grocery store for you; all stops must be arranged in advance. Are you comfortable driving in the snow? We average 500 inches of snow each season. The roads are well maintained, but you may be driving in winter conditions. A rental vehicle must be 4WD/AWD with a minimum of mud/snow tires. Do you like to go out to dinner a lot or visit other areas? If so, renting a vehicle may be the way to go. The evening shuttle to restaurants in the Alta/Snowbird area is free (6pm to 10pm, running mid-December through early April), but reaching other resorts outside Little Cottonwood Canyon by shuttle can be cost prohibitive. Will you be visiting early or late season? The area shuttles run from mid-December to about the beginning of April. Outside those times, you will want to rent a vehicle.

Do you offer airport transportation?

Yes. Airport transportation is one of our concierge services, and our reservations office can arrange it when you book. It is often the simplest option for guests who would otherwise need to rent a 4WD/AWD vehicle solely to get up Little Cottonwood Canyon. We generally recommend Alta Shuttle or Alpine Transportation. Alta Chalets can book either service for you at the same price you would pay booking directly, or you can arrange it with the provider yourself. Pricing depends on your group size and flight times, so you will need a quote based on your travel details. Next-day reservations are often available, but we recommend booking well in advance, especially during the winter months. Private shuttles can also stop at a grocery or liquor store on the way up if arranged in advance.

What shuttles and public transportation are available at Alta and Snowbird?

Once you are at Alta and Snowbird, there is no need for a vehicle. There are easy ways to get around during the day and in the evening. Dates of operation: [confirm for the current season]. Alta Resort Shuttle (daytime, free). Runs continually from 8:30am to 5:00pm, from mid-December to mid-April, along Bypass Road. It stops at all of the accommodations and brings guests to and from Alta's base lifts. This shuttle does NOT go to Snowbird. Please contact (801) 301-0122. Insider tip: you can use this shuttle to get to Snowbird by hopping off at The View Condominiums stop and skiing down the intermediate ski trail to Snowbird. Stops: Superior Point Sugarplum Townhouses Upper & Lower Sugarplum Village Sugarplum Meadows The View Condominiums Powder Ridge Alta Chalets Private Homes PhotoHaus Condominiums (by request) Supplemental Day Alta Resort Shuttle (free). Connects with the UTA bus route and has different stops. It runs from 7am to 6pm daily, picking up every 30 minutes. Dates of operation: [confirm]. Stops: Cliff Lodge Bottom of the Blackjack Road Driveway on the Bypass Road Alta Peruvian Lodge Goldminers Daughter Alta Lodge Rustler Lodge Snowpine Lodge Albion Base Alta Resort Night Shuttle (free). An on-demand service that picks up guests at their rental properties and takes them anywhere in the Alta Snowbird area between 6pm and 10pm. Dates of operation: [confirm]. We suggest calling (801) 301-0122 in the morning to reserve your ride for the evening. Pickup stops are the same as the daytime Alta Resort Shuttle.

Where do I park when I arrive?

When you call your caretaker from the airport, they will make plans to do your orientation and official check-in to the property. They will instruct you on where and how to park for your specific unit. You must display a pink Alta Chalets parking permit for select units on the rearview mirror of your rental car.

Is booking direct cheaper than Airbnb or VRBO?

Yes. When you book directly with Alta Chalets, you do not pay the Airbnb or VRBO booking fees that are added when reserving through those platforms. The rental accommodation is the same, but booking direct avoids those third-party service fees. If you are comparing the same Alta Chalets property and dates, booking direct will always be the less expensive option. Booking directly also gives you our full portfolio rather than the subset listed on the platforms, plus a reservations team that knows each individual building and can match you to the right unit. Direct guests arrange concierge services (lift tickets, airport transportation, grocery stocking, ski delivery, private chef) through the same office handling the reservation, rather than coordinating separately after booking. Either way, the property, the caretaker, and the service are the same; the difference is who you talk to and how much of our inventory you can see.

What are your deposit and cancellation policies?

A 10% deposit is due at the time of booking, and final payment is charged automatically 60 days prior to arrival. For cancellations made 7 days or more prior to arrival, you will receive a 90% refund. No refunds are provided for cancellations made within 7 days of arrival. Alta Chalets always recommends purchasing travel insurance, as it may provide coverage for certain cancellation situations that are not covered under our cancellation policy.

What is the minimum night stay?

Minimum night stays vary by season, day of the week, and current booking patterns, so there is no single standard minimum. Minimum stays can change from day to day and may be different during holiday periods or other high-demand times. If you are searching for availability and not finding what you need, try adjusting your arrival and departure dates or changing the length of your stay. Often, a different stay pattern will open up additional options.

Do you charge a security deposit?

No. Alta Chalets does not collect a refundable security deposit. Instead, every reservation includes a one-time, non-refundable Accidental Rental Damage Protection fee. This program covers accidental damage that occurs during your stay, such as a broken wine glass or a carpet stain. It does not cover intentional damage.

What appears on a booking beyond the nightly rate?

Your nightly rate covers the property itself, along with the starter supplies listed under “What do you provide in the rental properties?” Concierge services are arranged separately and billed in addition. These include discounted lift tickets, airport transportation, food stocking, ski delivery, private chef service, and travel insurance.

What are the check-in and check-out times? Can I check in early or stay late?

Standard check-in is 4pm and check-out is 10am. Early check-in and late check-out are available on request only. We will add the request to your reservation, and approval depends on housekeeping schedules, weather and other Alta Chalets reservations in house at the time. Please contact us directly so we can assess what this may look like for you.

How far ahead do holiday weeks book up?

Christmas Week and Presidents Week usually book up first. At Alta Chalets, those weeks are often fully booked 30 to 45 days before arrival, so reserve as early as possible if you plan to travel during peak holiday periods. Reservation calendars for the upcoming ski season are generally released in the early spring. Once those dates are available, you can book your stay for the new season.

Is there a snow guarantee, refund, or credit if snowfall is poor?

No. Alta Chalets does not offer a snow guarantee, refund, or credit if snowfall is poor. Many of the properties we manage are booked by guests who are not visiting to ski, so rental payments are not tied to snowfall conditions. No refunds are given for late check-ins or early checkouts for any reason, including weather, road closures, or an inability to reach your property. If weather or road closures require you to stay beyond your scheduled checkout date, additional nightly rental charges will apply. Little Cottonwood Canyon receives significant snowfall, and roads can close due to high avalanche danger.

Do any properties allow pets?

No. Alta Chalets has a strict no-pet policy, and pets are not allowed in any of our rental properties. Service dogs, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), are permitted. Little Cottonwood Canyon, where Alta is located, does not allow dogs except for ADA-defined service dogs and avalanche rescue dogs working in ski area operations. Bringing a pet to an Alta Chalets property is not permitted and can result in substantial fines and may be grounds for eviction.

Is Alta Chalets open for summer or non-ski season stays?

Alta Chalets is primarily a winter ski season business, and our focus and full inventory are built around the ski season. Limited availability does exist outside the winter months, but summer is also when much of our maintenance and renovation work happens and when many owners use their own properties, so options are narrower and vary year to year.

What are the office hours, and how do I reach someone after hours or in an emergency?

The Alta Chalets reservation office is staffed during the winter from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, with variable weekend hours. We send check-in instructions 48 hours before arrival, and those instructions include access to a text message thread that is monitored 24 hours a day for emergencies. If you need urgent assistance during your stay, use that text thread to reach the on-call team.

Alta Chalets is a locally based vacation rental management company that has operated in Alta and Snowbird, Utah for more than 30 years, making us one of the longest-running of the handful of local property management companies in Little Cottonwood Canyon. We manage privately owned condos, townhomes, and chalets across Alta, from 1-bedroom condos to 6+ bedroom homes, including The View Condominiums, Powder Ridge, Superior Point, the Sugarplum properties, and a collection of private homes. Our office is in Alta, not down in the Salt Lake valley. A local caretaker meets every guest in person at check-in to walk you through check-in, parking, and the specifics of your property, and our team is in the canyon throughout your stay. That matters here, as Little Cottonwood gets over 500 inches of snow a year, roads close, and Interlodge orders happen. Alongside lodging we provide concierge services including discounted lift tickets, airport transportation, food stocking, ski delivery, private chef service, and travel insurance. You can book any of our properties directly at altachalets.com or through our reservations office.

Alta Chalets, Alta Realty, and Alta Realty Property Management are affiliated companies. Alta Chalets focuses on vacation rentals and short-stay reservations, while Alta Realty and Alta Realty Property Management provide real estate and long-term rental services.

Where should I stay for a ski trip to Alta, Utah?

Alta Chalets manages luxury vacation rentals throughout Alta, so the best place to stay comes down to your group size and how close you want to be to the lifts. Our portfolio runs from 1-bedroom condos to 6+ bedroom chalets, including ski-in/ski-out units at The View Condominiums, condos at Powder Ridge and Superior Point, the Sugarplum Village, and standalone homes such as Nicholson Chalet, The Black Bear Chalet, The Lone Pine Chalet, and Manley Cabin. Most properties are within walking distance of Alta's base lifts or sit on the free resort shuttle route. A local caretaker meets you on arrival to handle check-in, parking, and orientation to your specific property.

How many bedrooms does each of the eight View units have, and how many people does each sleep?

There are eight View units managed by Alta Chalets. View #11 has one bedroom and sleeps up to 4 people. The other seven View units all have two bedrooms and sleep up to 6 people. View #5 also includes an open loft, but its maximum occupancy is still 6 guests. Across the eight View units, the largest occupancy is 6 guests.

Which properties are ski-in/ski-out, and how far are the others from the lifts?

The View Condominiums are ski-in/ski-out to Snowbird, with ski-in access from Alta for advanced skiers. Alta Chalets also considers Powder Ridge a true ski-in/ski-out property for Alta, with access from the Powder Ridge driveway across a very short cat track to the Wildcat/Collins base area. The Village at Sugarplum is ski-in/ski-out to Snowbird, with ski access beginning at the end of Blackjack Road. Superior Point is not true ski-in/ski-out, but it is one of the closest locations to Snowbird. You walk up a short driveway, cross the Bypass Road, and ski down to the Snowbird base area. For Alta access, Powder Ridge, Sugarplum, and Superior Point all use the free Alta Resort Shuttle, which typically takes just a few minutes to reach the Collins or Sunnyside base areas. The shuttle also picks up at The View, our private homes, and Photohaus. “Ski-in/ski-out” gets used loosely in this canyon, so if it matters to you, ask us directly and we will tell you exactly what the walk looks like in ski boots.

What's the difference between a ski-in/ski-out condo and a private chalet at Alta?

A ski-in/ski-out condo puts you closest to the snow with the least effort, while a private chalet gives you far more space and privacy in exchange for a short shuttle or drive. Our condos (The View, Powder Ridge, Superior Point, and the Sugarplum properties) generally suit couples and smaller families who want to step out the door and onto the mountain. Our chalets and private homes, including Nicholson Chalet, The Black Bear Chalet, The Fort House, The Lone Pine Chalet, The Cabin, Manley Cabin, and Palace de Pow, tend to suit larger groups who want a full house, more common space, and room to gather in the evening. Both sit on the free resort shuttle route.

Should I stay at Alta or Snowbird? What's the difference in lodging?

Snowbird lodging is mostly resort-operated hotel and condo product at the base area, while Alta lodging is a mix of independent lodges and privately owned condos and homes, which is where Alta Chalets operates. Staying in Alta generally means more space, a full kitchen, and a quieter, more residential feel. Staying at Snowbird means a larger base village with more on-site dining and services. The two resorts are neighbors and a combined Alta–Snowbird pass covers both mountains, so the choice is about the kind of stay you want rather than which mountain you can ski. Our View Condominiums are a middle path: an Alta address with true ski-in/ski-out access to Snowbird.

Which properties have in-unit laundry, bunk rooms, or game rooms?

Most Alta Chalets rental units have an in-unit washer and dryer. The one exception is Photohaus, which has two shared washer and dryers for the two-property building. For family-friendly features, The Fort House has a game room with a pool table and a bunk room. Superior Point #2F includes a room with a ping pong table and also has a bunk room. If having laundry, extra space for kids, or a dedicated recreation area is important to your group, these are two properties worth considering.

Do all properties have fiber Wi-Fi?

Only The View has fiber Wi-Fi. Alta Chalets manages a range of privately owned condos, townhomes, and chalets, and internet service can vary by property. If fiber Wi-Fi is important for your stay, ask us about the specific property you are considering and we can confirm the type of internet service available there.

Are any properties step-free, or have a bedroom on the main floor?

No. Alta Chalets does not manage any properties with step-free access, elevator access, or roll-in showers. The homes, chalets, townhomes, and condos we manage in Little Cottonwood Canyon are privately owned vacation rentals and were not built to ADA accessibility standards. If you have specific mobility or accessibility needs, please contact us before booking and we can help you determine whether a particular property may be a workable fit. Our three larger homes, The Lone Pine Chalet, The Fort House, and The Nicholson Chalet, also do not have a bedroom on the main floor. If a main-floor bedroom is important for grandparents or other guests who prefer to avoid stairs, these homes are probably not the best fit. We are happy to help you compare other accommodations and find a layout that better matches your group's needs.

Is there family-friendly lodging at Alta?

Yes. Every Alta Chalets property is a full residence rather than a hotel room, so families get a full kitchen for early breakfasts and picky eaters, separate bedrooms so children can sleep on their own schedule, and in most properties a washer and dryer for wet gear. Our properties run from 1-bedroom condos up to 6+ bedroom chalets, so single families and multi-family groups can both be accommodated. Alta has a dedicated beginner and intermediate area at the Albion base with its own lifts and ski school. The free daytime resort shuttle stops at our buildings, which makes ski-school drop-off manageable without hauling gear far. We stock each rental with starter supplies, and our food stocking service can have groceries waiting when you arrive, so you are not shopping with tired children after a flight.

Is Alta good for beginner skiers and young kids?

Yes, despite its reputation. Alta is known for steep expert terrain, but the Albion base has a separate beginner and intermediate area with its own lifts, gentle groomed runs, and a ski school, so new skiers and children can learn well away from the difficult terrain. Plenty of our guests are mixed-ability groups where one person skis the steeps and another is on their third day ever. If beginners are in your group, ask our office which properties are most convenient to the Albion side so you are not crossing the mountain every morning.

What's the best lodging option for a multi-generational family ski trip?

For multi-generational groups we usually recommend one of our larger private chalets over separate condos, so everyone shares a kitchen and a common room while still having their own bedrooms. The Black Bear Chalet, The Fort House, The Lone Pine Chalet, and Nicholson Chalet are the kind of properties that work well when grandparents, parents, and children are traveling together. If some of the group skis and some does not, a full house also gives the non-skiers somewhere comfortable to spend the day.

What size groups can you accommodate?

Our properties range from 1-bedroom condos up to 6+ bedroom chalets, so we can host anything from a couple to a large multi-family group. Smaller groups typically stay in our condos at The View, Powder Ridge, or Superior Point, while larger groups take a private home such as The Black Bear Chalet, The Fort House, The Lone Pine Chalet, or Nicholson Chalet. The largest group we can host in a single property is 23 people at the Nicholson Chalet, which has eight ensuite bedrooms and is commonly used for large corporate groups, multi-family retreats, and ski clubs. For larger groups, we can help coordinate multiple nearby rentals, and groups sometimes book two neighboring properties to stay together while keeping separate space. We also work with group gatherings such as retreats, reunions, corporate off-sites, and weddings. Tell our reservations office your headcount and how you want to be arranged, and we will put together the options. Please contact us with questions about group minimums, event restrictions, or specific requirements for your gathering.

Do you provide cribs, pack-n-plays, high chairs, bed rails or baby gates?

No. Alta Chalets does not stock cribs, Pack ’n Plays, high chairs, bed rails, baby gates, or other baby equipment. We can refer you to an outside rental company that delivers rental items to Alta and picks them up after your stay for a small fee. We recommend arranging rentals at least two weeks before your arrival, especially during busy winter periods, to help ensure the items you need are available.

Can you snowboard at Alta?

Alta is one of only three ski areas in the United States that does not allow snowboarding. That does not have to rule out a mixed group, though: Snowbird is directly next door and allows snowboarding, and a combined Alta-Snowbird pass covers both mountains. Several Alta Chalets properties work well for mixed groups. The View Condominiums are true ski-in/ski-out to Snowbird, so a snowboarder can ride Snowbird while the rest of the group skis Alta and everyone meets back at the same condo. Tell our reservations office if your group is mixed and we will steer you to a property that works for everyone.

Is there a place to buy discounted lift tickets?

Yes, Alta Chalets sells Super Pass lift tickets. These are a great option if you can't decide which resort you want to ski or ride at every day. The Super Pass is pre-loaded with a quantity of lift ticket days and allows you to choose each day whether you will ski at Alta or Snowbird. No more locking in a consecutive-day, single-resort pass! You can always upgrade this pass at the top of the mountain to the Alta Snowbird dual mountain lift ticket. These passes always have a 14-day window of use once you go through a ticket gate the first day.

How do ski rentals and ski delivery work?

Ski delivery is one of our concierge services. Equipment can be fitted and delivered to your property so you are not standing in a rental line on your first morning. If you prefer to rent in person, we recommend renting at Alta or Snowbird rather than in the Salt Lake valley. There are many discount ski rental operations in the valley, but renting at the mountain may cost slightly more and saves you a drive back down the canyon if you want to switch skis or have a problem during your visit.

Should I buy groceries before heading up the canyon to Alta and Snowbird?

Yes! Private chef service and food stocking are both available through our concierge team. Food stocking means we shop at the grocery store, natural foods store, or state liquor store in Salt Lake City before you arrive, so your kitchen is stocked when you walk in. That matters more here than elsewhere, since there is only a small general store at Snowbird and Interlodge closures can keep you indoors during a storm.

Do you offer private chef service?

Alta Chalets works with two outside chef service providers: Alta Provisions and Meghan Chopus and her team. Alta Provisions offers chef-prepared meals delivered to your door, as well as private chefs who can create personalized, multi-course dining experiences in your vacation rental. Meghan Chopus and her team provide private in-home dining services, including four-course dinners, fondue experiences, and in-home steakhouse dinners. Both single dinners and more extensive meal service options are available, depending on your needs. Pricing varies based on the services requested, group size, and menu selections. We recommend arranging chef services as far in advance as possible, as availability can be limited during busy periods.

What do you provide for guests in your rental properties?

Below are the items we provide for all of our guests in the units. Coffee filters Laundry and dishwasher detergent Dish soap Sponge and scouring pad All-purpose spray cleaner Paper towels and dish towels Starter supply of toilet paper Starter supply of trash bags

Will I be affected by the elevation?

Altitude affects people differently. It is not unusual to get a little headache and have some problems sleeping your first few days at altitude. There are brochures in each of our rental properties with pointers on handling altitude. If you have questions, or if you are experiencing more than mild symptoms, you should be seen by a medical professional. We recommend that you avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine and increase your intake of water.

What is Interlodge, and how will I be notified if it is called?

Interlodge is Alta's avalanche safety protocol. When avalanche danger is high and control work is underway, the Town of Alta issues an Interlodge order and everyone must stay indoors (no walking outside, no driving) until it is lifted. Orders are announced by phone, text, and siren, and can last from a short window to several hours, occasionally overnight. It usually means the next morning is exceptional. Alta Chalets will contact you as soon as we know an Interlodge order is likely to be called. We will send a message through your text thread first, and if we do not hear back, we will continue calling until we reach you. We will also place a sign outside your vacation rental door. Once Interlodge is in effect, you must remain inside your vacation rental until the order is lifted. Under Utah law, leaving your residence during Interlodge is not permitted, and fines may be issued if you are found outside. For more information, please see our Interlodge guide. Being stocked with food before a big storm is wise, which is one reason we offer food stocking and why a rental with a full kitchen is more comfortable than waiting it out in a hotel room.

Can I buy alcohol in Utah?

Yes, even on Sunday. Like other major cities, Salt Lake has bars, brewpubs, and restaurants that serve alcohol seven days a week. The “membership requirement” to enter bars was removed in 2009. If you're over 21 you can walk into a bar, order a drink, and enjoy. You have to buy wine, full-strength beer and hard liquor at a Utah State Liquor Store (see grocery stores for locations).

Can I recycle at Alta?

Due to the unique challenges of Alta's weather and location, no recycling pick-up service exists. However, if you have a vehicle and would like to recycle, you can take it to the Alta Recycling Center, which is on the north side of the main road, down canyon from the post office/fire station. It is across the street from the parking lot west of the Rustler Lodge. The recycling center accepts newspaper, plastics (including plastic bags), steel cans, cardboard, cereal boxes, aluminum cans, tin cans, all paper, milk jugs and soap boxes. It does not accept glass.

Alta Chalets FAQ | Booking, Check-In & Concierge

Getting to Alta and Getting Around

What airport should I fly into, and do I need a 4WD/AWD vehicle?
Fly into Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC). Alta is approximately a 45-minute drive, weather and traffic dependent.
If you are driving yourself, you must have a four-wheel or all-wheel drive vehicle with at least mud/snow tires. We get over 500 inches of snow a year, and the Utah Department of Transportation frequently restricts Little Cottonwood Canyon to 4WD/AWD only. Without it, you will not be permitted up the canyon under any circumstance.
Alta Chalets can also arrange airport transportation through our concierge services, which removes the vehicle question entirely.
Do I need to rent a car when I visit Alta/Snowbird?
Some guests never use their rental cars once they are at Alta, while others can't imagine not having one. There is no clear-cut answer, but these questions can help you decide. Please contact our office with any questions.

Do you have small children? Groups with small children are often happier with a vehicle, because dropping kids off at ski school or day care is easier than taking the shuttle with multiple pairs of skis, children and other gear.
What time do your flights arrive and depart? Check-in is at 4 PM and check-out at 10 AM. We can sometimes accommodate an early check-in or late check-out (about an hour on either side), but it must be approved by our reservations office in advance. If you arrive early or leave late, a rental vehicle gives you a place to store your bags and base out of.
Will you want to pick up groceries on your way to Alta? We offer a grocery stocking service. If you prefer to do your own grocery and liquor shopping, do it before you arrive at Alta/Snowbird. The easiest options are to rent a 4WD/AWD vehicle and shop on your way up the canyon (you can also place an online order in advance), or to book a private shuttle from the airport. The shuttle charges $1 per minute of wait time and will stop at the grocery store for you; all stops must be arranged in advance.
Are you comfortable driving in the snow? We average 500 inches of snow each season. The roads are well maintained, but you may be driving in winter conditions. A rental vehicle must be 4WD/AWD with a minimum of mud/snow tires.
Do you like to go out to dinner a lot or visit other areas? If so, renting a vehicle may be the way to go. The evening shuttle to restaurants in the Alta/Snowbird area is free (6pm to 10pm, running mid-December through early April), but reaching other resorts outside Little Cottonwood Canyon by shuttle can be cost prohibitive.
Will you be visiting early or late season? The area shuttles run from mid-December to about the beginning of April. Outside those times, you will want to rent a vehicle.
Do you offer airport transportation?
Yes. Airport transportation is one of our concierge services, and our reservations office can arrange it when you book. It is often the simplest option for guests who would otherwise need to rent a 4WD/AWD vehicle solely to get up Little Cottonwood Canyon.
We generally recommend Alta Shuttle or Alpine Transportation. Alta Chalets can book either service for you at the same price you would pay booking directly, or you can arrange it with the provider yourself. Pricing depends on your group size and flight times, so you will need a quote based on your travel details. Next-day reservations are often available, but we recommend booking well in advance, especially during the winter months. Private shuttles can also stop at a grocery or liquor store on the way up if arranged in advance.
What shuttles and public transportation are available at Alta and Snowbird?
Once you are at Alta and Snowbird, there is no need for a vehicle. There are easy ways to get around during the day and in the evening. Dates of operation: [confirm for the current season].
Alta Resort Shuttle (daytime, free). Runs continually from 8:30am to 5:00pm, from mid-December to mid-April, along Bypass Road. It stops at all of the accommodations and brings guests to and from Alta's base lifts. This shuttle does NOT go to Snowbird. Please contact (801) 301-0122.
Insider tip: you can use this shuttle to get to Snowbird by hopping off at The View Condominiums stop and skiing down the intermediate ski trail to Snowbird.
Stops:

Superior Point
Sugarplum Townhouses
Upper & Lower Sugarplum Village
Sugarplum Meadows
The View Condominiums
Powder Ridge Alta Chalets
Private Homes
PhotoHaus Condominiums (by request)

Supplemental Day Alta Resort Shuttle (free). Connects with the UTA bus route and has different stops. It runs from 7am to 6pm daily, picking up every 30 minutes. Dates of operation: [confirm].
Stops:

Cliff Lodge
Bottom of the Blackjack Road Driveway on the Bypass Road
Alta Peruvian Lodge
Goldminers Daughter
Alta Lodge
Rustler Lodge
Snowpine Lodge
Albion Base

Alta Resort Night Shuttle (free). An on-demand service that picks up guests at their rental properties and takes them anywhere in the Alta Snowbird area between 6pm and 10pm. Dates of operation: [confirm]. We suggest calling (801) 301-0122 in the morning to reserve your ride for the evening. Pickup stops are the same as the daytime Alta Resort Shuttle.
Where do I park when I arrive?
When you call your caretaker from the airport, they will make plans to do your orientation and official check-in to the property. They will instruct you on where and how to park for your specific unit. You must display a pink Alta Chalets parking permit for select units on the rearview mirror of your rental car.

Booking, Pricing and Policies

Is booking direct cheaper than Airbnb or VRBO?
Yes. When you book directly with Alta Chalets, you do not pay the Airbnb or VRBO booking fees that are added when reserving through those platforms. The rental accommodation is the same, but booking direct avoids those third-party service fees. If you are comparing the same Alta Chalets property and dates, booking direct will always be the less expensive option.
Booking directly also gives you our full portfolio rather than the subset listed on the platforms, plus a reservations team that knows each individual building and can match you to the right unit. Direct guests arrange concierge services (lift tickets, airport transportation, grocery stocking, ski delivery, private chef) through the same office handling the reservation, rather than coordinating separately after booking. Either way, the property, the caretaker, and the service are the same; the difference is who you talk to and how much of our inventory you can see.
What are your deposit and cancellation policies?
A 10% deposit is due at the time of booking, and final payment is charged automatically 60 days prior to arrival. For cancellations made 7 days or more prior to arrival, you will receive a 90% refund. No refunds are provided for cancellations made within 7 days of arrival. Alta Chalets always recommends purchasing travel insurance, as it may provide coverage for certain cancellation situations that are not covered under our cancellation policy.
What is the minimum night stay?
Minimum night stays vary by season, day of the week, and current booking patterns, so there is no single standard minimum. Minimum stays can change from day to day and may be different during holiday periods or other high-demand times. If you are searching for availability and not finding what you need, try adjusting your arrival and departure dates or changing the length of your stay. Often, a different stay pattern will open up additional options.
Do you charge a security deposit?
No. Alta Chalets does not collect a refundable security deposit. Instead, every reservation includes a one-time, non-refundable Accidental Rental Damage Protection fee. This program covers accidental damage that occurs during your stay, such as a broken wine glass or a carpet stain. It does not cover intentional damage.
What appears on a booking beyond the nightly rate?
Your nightly rate covers the property itself, along with the starter supplies listed under “What do you provide in the rental properties?” Concierge services are arranged separately and billed in addition. These include discounted lift tickets, airport transportation, food stocking, ski delivery, private chef service, and travel insurance.
What are the check-in and check-out times? Can I check in early or stay late?
Standard check-in is 4pm and check-out is 10am. Early check-in and late check-out are available on request only. We will add the request to your reservation, and approval depends on housekeeping schedules, weather and other Alta Chalets reservations in house at the time. Please contact us directly so we can assess what this may look like for you.
How far ahead do holiday weeks book up?
Christmas Week and Presidents Week usually book up first. At Alta Chalets, those weeks are often fully booked 30 to 45 days before arrival, so reserve as early as possible if you plan to travel during peak holiday periods. Reservation calendars for the upcoming ski season are generally released in the early spring. Once those dates are available, you can book your stay for the new season.
Is there a snow guarantee, refund, or credit if snowfall is poor?
No. Alta Chalets does not offer a snow guarantee, refund, or credit if snowfall is poor. Many of the properties we manage are booked by guests who are not visiting to ski, so rental payments are not tied to snowfall conditions.
No refunds are given for late check-ins or early checkouts for any reason, including weather, road closures, or an inability to reach your property. If weather or road closures require you to stay beyond your scheduled checkout date, additional nightly rental charges will apply. Little Cottonwood Canyon receives significant snowfall, and roads can close due to high avalanche danger.
Do any properties allow pets?
No. Alta Chalets has a strict no-pet policy, and pets are not allowed in any of our rental properties. Service dogs, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), are permitted. Little Cottonwood Canyon, where Alta is located, does not allow dogs except for ADA-defined service dogs and avalanche rescue dogs working in ski area operations. Bringing a pet to an Alta Chalets property is not permitted and can result in substantial fines and may be grounds for eviction.
Is Alta Chalets open for summer or non-ski season stays?
Alta Chalets is primarily a winter ski season business, and our focus and full inventory are built around the ski season. Limited availability does exist outside the winter months, but summer is also when much of our maintenance and renovation work happens and when many owners use their own properties, so options are narrower and vary year to year.
What are the office hours, and how do I reach someone after hours or in an emergency?
The Alta Chalets reservation office is staffed during the winter from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, with variable weekend hours. We send check-in instructions 48 hours before arrival, and those instructions include access to a text message thread that is monitored 24 hours a day for emergencies. If you need urgent assistance during your stay, use that text thread to reach the on-call team.

Our Properties and Where to Stay

Who is Alta Chalets?
Alta Chalets is a locally based vacation rental management company that has operated in Alta and Snowbird, Utah for more than 30 years, making us one of the longest-running of the handful of local property management companies in Little Cottonwood Canyon. We manage privately owned condos, townhomes, and chalets across Alta, from 1-bedroom condos to 6+ bedroom homes, including The View Condominiums, Powder Ridge, Superior Point, the Sugarplum properties, and a collection of private homes.
Our office is in Alta, not down in the Salt Lake valley. A local caretaker meets every guest in person at check-in to walk you through check-in, parking, and the specifics of your property, and our team is in the canyon throughout your stay. That matters here, as Little Cottonwood gets over 500 inches of snow a year, roads close, and Interlodge orders happen.
Alongside lodging we provide concierge services including discounted lift tickets, airport transportation, food stocking, ski delivery, private chef service, and travel insurance. You can book any of our properties directly at altachalets.com or through our reservations office.
What is Alta Realty?
Alta Chalets, Alta Realty, and Alta Realty Property Management are affiliated companies. Alta Chalets focuses on vacation rentals and short-stay reservations, while Alta Realty and Alta Realty Property Management provide real estate and long-term rental services.
Where should I stay for a ski trip to Alta, Utah?
Alta Chalets manages luxury vacation rentals throughout Alta, so the best place to stay comes down to your group size and how close you want to be to the lifts. Our portfolio runs from 1-bedroom condos to 6+ bedroom chalets, including ski-in/ski-out units at The View Condominiums, condos at Powder Ridge and Superior Point, the Sugarplum Village, and standalone homes such as Nicholson Chalet, The Black Bear Chalet, The Lone Pine Chalet, and Manley Cabin. Most properties are within walking distance of Alta's base lifts or sit on the free resort shuttle route. A local caretaker meets you on arrival to handle check-in, parking, and orientation to your specific property.
How many bedrooms does each of the eight View units have, and how many people does each sleep?
There are eight View units managed by Alta Chalets. View #11 has one bedroom and sleeps up to 4 people. The other seven View units all have two bedrooms and sleep up to 6 people. View #5 also includes an open loft, but its maximum occupancy is still 6 guests. Across the eight View units, the largest occupancy is 6 guests.
Which properties are ski-in/ski-out, and how far are the others from the lifts?
The View Condominiums are ski-in/ski-out to Snowbird, with ski-in access from Alta for advanced skiers. Alta Chalets also considers Powder Ridge a true ski-in/ski-out property for Alta, with access from the Powder Ridge driveway across a very short cat track to the Wildcat/Collins base area. The Village at Sugarplum is ski-in/ski-out to Snowbird, with ski access beginning at the end of Blackjack Road.
Superior Point is not true ski-in/ski-out, but it is one of the closest locations to Snowbird. You walk up a short driveway, cross the Bypass Road, and ski down to the Snowbird base area.
For Alta access, Powder Ridge, Sugarplum, and Superior Point all use the free Alta Resort Shuttle, which typically takes just a few minutes to reach the Collins or Sunnyside base areas. The shuttle also picks up at The View, our private homes, and Photohaus. “Ski-in/ski-out” gets used loosely in this canyon, so if it matters to you, ask us directly and we will tell you exactly what the walk looks like in ski boots.
What's the difference between a ski-in/ski-out condo and a private chalet at Alta?
A ski-in/ski-out condo puts you closest to the snow with the least effort, while a private chalet gives you far more space and privacy in exchange for a short shuttle or drive. Our condos (The View, Powder Ridge, Superior Point, and the Sugarplum properties) generally suit couples and smaller families who want to step out the door and onto the mountain. Our chalets and private homes, including Nicholson Chalet, The Black Bear Chalet, The Fort House, The Lone Pine Chalet, The Cabin, Manley Cabin, and Palace de Pow, tend to suit larger groups who want a full house, more common space, and room to gather in the evening. Both sit on the free resort shuttle route.
Should I stay at Alta or Snowbird? What's the difference in lodging?
Snowbird lodging is mostly resort-operated hotel and condo product at the base area, while Alta lodging is a mix of independent lodges and privately owned condos and homes, which is where Alta Chalets operates. Staying in Alta generally means more space, a full kitchen, and a quieter, more residential feel. Staying at Snowbird means a larger base village with more on-site dining and services. The two resorts are neighbors and a combined Alta–Snowbird pass covers both mountains, so the choice is about the kind of stay you want rather than which mountain you can ski. Our View Condominiums are a middle path: an Alta address with true ski-in/ski-out access to Snowbird.
Which properties have in-unit laundry, bunk rooms, or game rooms?
Most Alta Chalets rental units have an in-unit washer and dryer. The one exception is Photohaus, which has two shared washer and dryers for the two-property building. For family-friendly features, The Fort House has a game room with a pool table and a bunk room. Superior Point #2F includes a room with a ping pong table and also has a bunk room. If having laundry, extra space for kids, or a dedicated recreation area is important to your group, these are two properties worth considering.
Do all properties have fiber Wi-Fi?
Only The View has fiber Wi-Fi. Alta Chalets manages a range of privately owned condos, townhomes, and chalets, and internet service can vary by property. If fiber Wi-Fi is important for your stay, ask us about the specific property you are considering and we can confirm the type of internet service available there.
Are any properties step-free, or have a bedroom on the main floor?
No. Alta Chalets does not manage any properties with step-free access, elevator access, or roll-in showers. The homes, chalets, townhomes, and condos we manage in Little Cottonwood Canyon are privately owned vacation rentals and were not built to ADA accessibility standards. If you have specific mobility or accessibility needs, please contact us before booking and we can help you determine whether a particular property may be a workable fit.
Our three larger homes, The Lone Pine Chalet, The Fort House, and The Nicholson Chalet, also do not have a bedroom on the main floor. If a main-floor bedroom is important for grandparents or other guests who prefer to avoid stairs, these homes are probably not the best fit. We are happy to help you compare other accommodations and find a layout that better matches your group's needs.

Families and Groups

Is there family-friendly lodging at Alta?
Yes. Every Alta Chalets property is a full residence rather than a hotel room, so families get a full kitchen for early breakfasts and picky eaters, separate bedrooms so children can sleep on their own schedule, and in most properties a washer and dryer for wet gear. Our properties run from 1-bedroom condos up to 6+ bedroom chalets, so single families and multi-family groups can both be accommodated.
Alta has a dedicated beginner and intermediate area at the Albion base with its own lifts and ski school. The free daytime resort shuttle stops at our buildings, which makes ski-school drop-off manageable without hauling gear far. We stock each rental with starter supplies, and our food stocking service can have groceries waiting when you arrive, so you are not shopping with tired children after a flight.
Is Alta good for beginner skiers and young kids?
Yes, despite its reputation. Alta is known for steep expert terrain, but the Albion base has a separate beginner and intermediate area with its own lifts, gentle groomed runs, and a ski school, so new skiers and children can learn well away from the difficult terrain. Plenty of our guests are mixed-ability groups where one person skis the steeps and another is on their third day ever. If beginners are in your group, ask our office which properties are most convenient to the Albion side so you are not crossing the mountain every morning.
What's the best lodging option for a multi-generational family ski trip?
For multi-generational groups we usually recommend one of our larger private chalets over separate condos, so everyone shares a kitchen and a common room while still having their own bedrooms. The Black Bear Chalet, The Fort House, The Lone Pine Chalet, and Nicholson Chalet are the kind of properties that work well when grandparents, parents, and children are traveling together. If some of the group skis and some does not, a full house also gives the non-skiers somewhere comfortable to spend the day.
What size groups can you accommodate?
Our properties range from 1-bedroom condos up to 6+ bedroom chalets, so we can host anything from a couple to a large multi-family group. Smaller groups typically stay in our condos at The View, Powder Ridge, or Superior Point, while larger groups take a private home such as The Black Bear Chalet, The Fort House, The Lone Pine Chalet, or Nicholson Chalet.
The largest group we can host in a single property is 23 people at the Nicholson Chalet, which has eight ensuite bedrooms and is commonly used for large corporate groups, multi-family retreats, and ski clubs. For larger groups, we can help coordinate multiple nearby rentals, and groups sometimes book two neighboring properties to stay together while keeping separate space. We also work with group gatherings such as retreats, reunions, corporate off-sites, and weddings.
Tell our reservations office your headcount and how you want to be arranged, and we will put together the options. Please contact us with questions about group minimums, event restrictions, or specific requirements for your gathering.
Do you provide cribs, pack-n-plays, high chairs, bed rails or baby gates?
No. Alta Chalets does not stock cribs, Pack ’n Plays, high chairs, bed rails, baby gates, or other baby equipment. We can refer you to an outside rental company that delivers rental items to Alta and picks them up after your stay for a small fee. We recommend arranging rentals at least two weeks before your arrival, especially during busy winter periods, to help ensure the items you need are available.
Can you snowboard at Alta?
Alta is one of only three ski areas in the United States that does not allow snowboarding. That does not have to rule out a mixed group, though: Snowbird is directly next door and allows snowboarding, and a combined Alta-Snowbird pass covers both mountains. Several Alta Chalets properties work well for mixed groups. The View Condominiums are true ski-in/ski-out to Snowbird, so a snowboarder can ride Snowbird while the rest of the group skis Alta and everyone meets back at the same condo. Tell our reservations office if your group is mixed and we will steer you to a property that works for everyone.

Lift Tickets, Rentals and Concierge Services

Is there a place to buy discounted lift tickets?
Yes, Alta Chalets sells Super Pass lift tickets. These are a great option if you can't decide which resort you want to ski or ride at every day. The Super Pass is pre-loaded with a quantity of lift ticket days and allows you to choose each day whether you will ski at Alta or Snowbird. No more locking in a consecutive-day, single-resort pass! You can always upgrade this pass at the top of the mountain to the Alta Snowbird dual mountain lift ticket. These passes always have a 14-day window of use once you go through a ticket gate the first day.
How do ski rentals and ski delivery work?
Ski delivery is one of our concierge services. Equipment can be fitted and delivered to your property so you are not standing in a rental line on your first morning.
If you prefer to rent in person, we recommend renting at Alta or Snowbird rather than in the Salt Lake valley. There are many discount ski rental operations in the valley, but renting at the mountain may cost slightly more and saves you a drive back down the canyon if you want to switch skis or have a problem during your visit.
Should I buy groceries before heading up the canyon to Alta and Snowbird?
Yes! Private chef service and food stocking are both available through our concierge team. Food stocking means we shop at the grocery store, natural foods store, or state liquor store in Salt Lake City before you arrive, so your kitchen is stocked when you walk in. That matters more here than elsewhere, since there is only a small general store at Snowbird and Interlodge closures can keep you indoors during a storm.
Do you offer private chef service?
Alta Chalets works with two outside chef service providers: Alta Provisions and Meghan Chopus and her team. Alta Provisions offers chef-prepared meals delivered to your door, as well as private chefs who can create personalized, multi-course dining experiences in your vacation rental. Meghan Chopus and her team provide private in-home dining services, including four-course dinners, fondue experiences, and in-home steakhouse dinners.
Both single dinners and more extensive meal service options are available, depending on your needs. Pricing varies based on the services requested, group size, and menu selections. We recommend arranging chef services as far in advance as possible, as availability can be limited during busy periods.

Staying in Alta

What do you provide for guests in your rental properties?
Below are the items we provide for all of our guests in the units.

Coffee filters
Laundry and dishwasher detergent
Dish soap
Sponge and scouring pad
All-purpose spray cleaner
Paper towels and dish towels
Starter supply of toilet paper
Starter supply of trash bags
Will I be affected by the elevation?
Altitude affects people differently. It is not unusual to get a little headache and have some problems sleeping your first few days at altitude. There are brochures in each of our rental properties with pointers on handling altitude. If you have questions, or if you are experiencing more than mild symptoms, you should be seen by a medical professional. We recommend that you avoid excessive alcohol and caffeine and increase your intake of water.
What is Interlodge, and how will I be notified if it is called?
Interlodge is Alta's avalanche safety protocol. When avalanche danger is high and control work is underway, the Town of Alta issues an Interlodge order and everyone must stay indoors (no walking outside, no driving) until it is lifted. Orders are announced by phone, text, and siren, and can last from a short window to several hours, occasionally overnight. It usually means the next morning is exceptional.
Alta Chalets will contact you as soon as we know an Interlodge order is likely to be called. We will send a message through your text thread first, and if we do not hear back, we will continue calling until we reach you. We will also place a sign outside your vacation rental door.
Once Interlodge is in effect, you must remain inside your vacation rental until the order is lifted. Under Utah law, leaving your residence during Interlodge is not permitted, and fines may be issued if you are found outside. For more information, please see our Interlodge guide. Being stocked with food before a big storm is wise, which is one reason we offer food stocking and why a rental with a full kitchen is more comfortable than waiting it out in a hotel room.
Can I buy alcohol in Utah?
Yes, even on Sunday. Like other major cities, Salt Lake has bars, brewpubs, and restaurants that serve alcohol seven days a week. The “membership requirement” to enter bars was removed in 2009. If you're over 21 you can walk into a bar, order a drink, and enjoy. You have to buy wine, full-strength beer and hard liquor at a Utah State Liquor Store (see grocery stores for locations).
Can I recycle at Alta?
Due to the unique challenges of Alta's weather and location, no recycling pick-up service exists. However, if you have a vehicle and would like to recycle, you can take it to the Alta Recycling Center, which is on the north side of the main road, down canyon from the post office/fire station. It is across the street from the parking lot west of the Rustler Lodge. The recycling center accepts newspaper, plastics (including plastic bags), steel cans, cardboard, cereal boxes, aluminum cans, tin cans, all paper, milk jugs and soap boxes. It does not accept glass.

Frequently Asked Questions