Alta Snow Totals by Year: A Comprehensive Guide to Historic Snowfall

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 what kind of winter conditions you might encounter, this guide breaks down snow totals by year, snow trends, record-breaking seasons, and what makes this ski area one of the snowiest spots in the country.

Why Alta’s Snowfall is a Skier’s Dream

Skiers don’t just come to Alta, Utah, for the views, although they are spectacular. They come for the snow. The Alta ski area offers unique geography, high elevation of the Wasatch Mountains, and lake-effect snow combine to deliver deep, dry powder season after season. It’s truly the perfect match for ideal powder skiing.

What Makes Alta’s Snowfall So Reliable?

• Lake-Effect Snow: The Great Salt Lake acts as a natural snow machine, fueling storm cycles that drop fluffy powder across the Wasatch Range due to it never fully freezing over. 
• High Elevation: The base of the Alta ski area sits at 8,530 feet, while the highest lift-accessed terrain reaches 10,550 feet. This elevation ensures colder temperatures, preserving new snow quality throughout the ski season.
• Frequent Storm Cycles: The Alta ski area averages 64 snowfall days per season, meaning fresh powder is almost always on the horizon.
• Snow Density: The climate conditions around the Little Cottonwood Canyon area create a snow density of 8.5 percent. In translation, that density is the perfect consistency for skis to float through the powder. 
• Expert Avalanche Mitigation: With heavy snowfall comes avalanche risk, but Alta’s ski patrol is renowned for its snow safety and mitigation efforts, ensuring skiers can safely enjoy the terrain.

If you love deep powder, consistent storms, and long ski seasons, Alta is the place to be.

Alta Average Snow Totals 

Alta’s snowfall is measured at the Alta Guard Station and the Collins Study Plot, which have been tracking snowfall data since 1944 and 1980. The Alta ski area has seen some incredible snow years, with totals that have shattered records. Let’s take a closer look at some of Alta’s previous seasons.

Average Historical Snowfall at Alta Ski Area

• Annual Average Snowfall: 545 inches
• Snowfall Days: 64 days per year
• Average Base Depth: Varies by month, peaking at 132 inches around May

Monthly Snowfall Breakdown

Here’s a quick look at how much snow is distributed throughout the season:

As you can see, December through February are typically the snowiest months, making them ideal for planning your ski trip. However, don’t overlook March and April, when the new snow is still plentiful and the crowds begin to thin out.

Average Yearly Alta Snow Totals: Historical Data

Alta’s snowfall can fluctuate from season to season, but it remains one of the most consistently snowy ski areas in North America. Below is a breakdown of the historical snowfall data over the last five years.

Alta’s 10-year rolling average is now 545 inches, showing how consistent its snowfall has been despite some lower-than-average seasons. But every so often, Mother Nature delivers an absolute monster winter, like the 2022-23 snow season. 

Record-Breaking Historical Snowfall Years at Alta Ski Area

While every season at Alta offers powder days, some winters stand out as truly legendary.

Snowiest Seasons in Alta’s History

1. 2022–23: 903 inches (All-time record)
   • The season that redefined “big snow years.” 
   • March 2023 set a record for the snowiest single month with 229 inches.
   • A settled snow depth of 248 inches (over 20 feet!) was recorded on April 5, 2023.
2. 1981–82: 748 inches
   • The previous record before 2022–23 crushed it.
   • A season-long powder fest that stood as the benchmark for 40+ years.
3. 2010–11: 724 inches
   • The best season of the past two decades before 2022–23 took over.
   • Countless powder days and one of the longest-lasting snowpacks on record.
4. 1983–84: 708.5 inches
   • A season so snowy it contributed to record flooding in Utah when it all melted in the spring.
5. 2007–08: 702 inches
   • A dream season that delivered deep powder days from November through May.

A 903-inch season like 2022–23 may not happen often, but Alta’s long-term history proves that massive snowfall years aren’t a fluke – they’re part of what makes this place legendary.

Plan Your Ski Trip to Alta: Where to Stay

If you’re chasing deep powder, you’ll want a place to stay that keeps you close to the action. Alta Chalets offers premier vacation rentals just minutes from the lifts, ensuring that when the snow falls, you’re first in line for the best runs.

Why Stay with Alta Chalets?

• Prime Location: Located near Little and Big Cottonwood Canyon, you’re within minutes of Alta and Snowbird.
• Comfortable Accommodations: From cozy ski-in/ski-out condos to spacious mountain homes.
• Personalized Service: As a family-run business, we aim for each guest to have a seamless ski experience.

After an epic powder day, there’s nothing better than relaxing by the fire, enjoying mountain views, and planning your next adventure.

Tips for Maximizing Your Alta Ski Experience

Want to make the most of your trip? Here are a few expert tips:

• Chase the Storms: If you can be flexible, monitor snowfall and book last-minute when a big storm hits. For real-time snow reports and forecasts, visit Alta’s official weather page.
• Plan for Road Closures: Little Cottonwood Canyon often experiences closures due to avalanche mitigation. Always check the road status before heading up.
• Mid-Week = Fewer Crowds: Ski on weekdays to avoid the weekend rush.
• Be Avalanche Aware: If venturing into Alta’s backcountry terrain, always carry proper gear and check avalanche forecasts.

Whether looking at past snowfall trends or hoping to experience a record-breaking season, one thing is certain: Alta delivers.

Alta’s Snowfall Legacy

Alta’s snowfall history proves what powder lovers already know – this is one of the best ski destinations on the planet. Alta always delivers the goods, whether it’s the first snow of the season or the very last week to squeeze in some runs down the slopes. There’s no better place to experience Utah’s famed powder.

Looking for vacation rentals near Alta? Check out Alta Chalets for a ski-in, ski-out experience.