Alta is a popular ski resort for skiing in the Wasatch Mountains in Utah. It is one of the few winter sports resorts in the USA that does not allow snowboarding, as it is a ski-only resort. In addition, it is known for its excellent snow quality and challenging slopes, making it a popular destination for advanced skiers. Let's explore the lodging options available at Alta Ski Resort, focusing on two prominent establishments: Alta's Rustler Lodge and Alta Lodge.
About Alta Ski Resort
The ski resort Alta is located surrounding Salt Lake City (USA, Utah). The winter sports area is situated between the elevations of 2,600 and 3,200 m. It is just over 50 kilometers from Salt Lake City International Airport, making it, by American standards, practically adjacent to a major city. Access is via Little Cottonwood Canyon and past Snowbird, which is only a few minutes away by car. Parking is available at the Wildcat Base, along the ski-in/ski-out hotels, and at the Albion Base, where the road ends in winter.
Here are some key statistics about the resort:
- Total Ski Slopes: 71 km
- Easy: 11 km (15%)
- Intermediate: 21 km (30%)
- Difficult: 39 km (55%)
- Elevation: 2600 m - 3200 m (Difference 600 m)
- Lifts: 8
- Operating Season: Late November - Mid April
Alta encompasses 15% beginner terrain, 30% intermediate terrain and 55% expert terrain. Year after year, Alta brings home accolades for the quality of its powder snow and terrain.
Important Note: Snowboarding is prohibited at Alta.
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My first time skiing ALTA
Alta's Rustler Lodge
Alta's Rustler Lodge is located in the town of Alta, Utah. It is at the base of the Alta Ski Resort, which boasts of 500 inches of "the greatest snow on Earth" annually. Alta is 45 minutes southeast of both the Salt Lake International Airport and Salt Lake City.
Rated #1 on Trip Advisor, Alta's Rustler Lodge prides itself on “service above all”. The Rustler has the best food in Little Cottonwood Canyon prepared by our chef, Ed McCall. Alta's Rustler Lodge has 85 guest rooms and operates on modified American food plan, which includes breakfast and dinner in the room rates. Lunch is also served at an additional cost. Most guests feel as if they are returning home when they arrive at the lodge. Much effort is put into maintaining this feeling and the management team that has been with Alta's Rustler Lodge for over 18 years makes it possible!
For 75 years, Alta's Rustler Lodge has taken pride in a tradition of excellence, providing unsurpassed dining, the finest in accommodations and attentive service. The combination of Alta's light, dry powder and the Rustler Lodge's amenities assure a most memorable ski vacation. Alta is for you, whatever your ability! Our deep powder snow, rugged terrain and spectacular scenery are world renown. Our best kept secret is our great beginner and intermediate terrain, which together comprise 65% of the area.
Amenities at Rustler Lodge:
- Outdoor heated pool
- Jacuzzi
- Eucalyptus steam room
- Eagle's Nest Club
Alta Lodge
Alta Lodge is Alta’s first ski lodge, hosting skiers since 1940. Welcome to our classic ski lodge, with the amenities essential to skiers and the personal service of a family-run lodge. Offering the classic ski vacation - reminiscent of the days when ski accommodations offered more than just a place to stay - the Alta Lodge atmosphere is authentic, personal, and informal. As the saying goes, “Families that play together, stay together.” And there’s no better time or place to connect and create memories than on the slopes and a stay at Alta Lodge. From early June to mid-October, we are available for weddings and receptions, meetings or retreats, reunions, special events, and onsite group lodging.
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Dining and Relaxation:
Alta offers a variety of dining options to suit every taste and occasion:
- Alf’s Restaurant: Centered in Albion Basin, this family-friendly eatery serves all the traditional ski eats - burgers, chili, brats and local microbrews.
- Watson Shelter: A cozy mid-mountain lodge serves organic and locally sourced burrito bowls, soups, salads, pizza and more while giving diners a sensational canyon view.
- Swen’s Restaurant: Snowpine Lodge houses the upscale Swen’s Restaurant, offering seasonally-inspired dishes complemented by astounding Alta views.
- Albion Grill: Located in the Albion Day Lodge near the Sunnyside lift. This cafeteria-style grill serves breakfast, lunch, quick snacks and beverages.
- Slopeside Cafe at the Goldminer's Daughter: Grab an early morning coffee or sit down for a casual lunch break at the Slopeside Cafe. This quick dining option serves everything from breakfast burritos and yogurt parfaits to wraps, burgers, salads and pizzas.
Additional Tips for Visiting Alta
- Backcountry Skiing: During the operating season, Alta does not permit uphill or backcountry skiing within its boundaries, however, backcountry enthusiasts can access the Grizzly Gulch trailhead, just beyond Alta’s Albion parking lot.
- Alta & Snowbird Connect: Alta and Snowbird offer the Alta-Bird season and day passes, which include access to both resorts. The Ikon Pass is valid at both resorts, but the Ikon Base Pass is not valid at Alta.
- Ski Rentals: Enjoy Alta’s three convenient, on-mountain ski shops for gear, rentals and demos. Reserve your rentals online.
Whether you're an advanced skier seeking challenging slopes or a family looking for a memorable ski vacation, Alta Ski Resort offers a unique and authentic experience. With excellent lodging options like Alta's Rustler Lodge and Alta Lodge, your stay is sure to be comfortable and enjoyable.
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