Over 500 inches of snow per year means lots of opportunities for first tracks in deep powder. Now, imagine waking up, enjoying a hot breakfast and then riding first chair. That isn’t heaven my friends, it’s living.
Alta, Utah is a town that also happens to be home to one of the premier ski areas in the country. Instead of one “resort” controlling all of the lodging, you have your choice of five distinct lodges.
Because each is separately owned and operated, you can’t just call one number to make a reservation, so I’ve gathered them together below so you can see all of the options on one page. There are some private home rentals in the area also, but for this list I’m focusing on the lodges.
The Five Lodges of Alta Ski Area
Snowpine Lodge
Vibe - The freshly rebuilt Snowpine Lodge delivers lovely modern finishes and amenities including indulgent spa treatments, plush rooms, inspired dining and a family friendly atmosphere. Needless to say, the Snowpine Lodge has come a long way since its days as an army barrack and public shelter!
Insider Tips - "Book popular times 9-12 months in advance (Snowpine is already sold out of certain room types for 2019/2020). Best time for a deal is right after the season ends"
Bonuses – During the Snowpine re-construction, 19 new dorm beds were added to increase access for all skiers.
Contact
Phone: 801.742.2000
Website
Rustler Lodge
Vibe – Alta's Rustler Lodge prides itself on pampering guests so they can settle in and relax. From the chairs surrounding a roaring fire, to outdoor Jacuzzis with sweeping mountain views, the physical surroundings will call on you to unwind. Add the unrivaled hospitality of the staff and management, and you have the ingredients for a perfect escape.
Breakfast and dinner are included in the room rate. Of note: Rustler gives special dietary requests. I know from my own experience managing food allergies can be a challenge while traveling, but they make it a straightforward task.
Insider Tips - "We are now accepting Advance Reservation Requests for the 2019-20 ski season. We ask all of our guests fill out a form with desired dates and room types. In mid-May / June we start inputting requests. So expect to hear from us around that time. We suggest everyone fills out a form even if they do not plan to confirm, especially of peak seasons, to at least hold a space for you (and family).
Early and late season are when we offer anywhere from a 20-30% lodging discount. Also, if your schedule is flexible and you are able to join us mid-week we are happy to work on rates for you!"
Bonuses – The outdoor heated pool and hot tub feature spectacular views! Indoors, the fitness center has the same views – no need for a silly T.V. screen while you run, just look outside. From dorms to luxury suites, the Rustler has a wide selection of rooms and rates giving guests ample choices. During peak season the Rustler Lodge offers an evening children’s program including a special “kids only” dinner.
Contact
Phone: 801.742.4200
Website
Alta Peruvian
Vibe - “There’s nothing too fancy about the Alta Peruvian Lodge. We just pride ourselves on quality service and fantastic meals. Then Alta does the rest with skiing,” explains Patrick Pike. And Patrick should know, he’s spent over 21 years working at the lodge, a testament to their consistency. Guests socialize with each other over three daily meals (included in the room rate) and often book their trips together after bonding inside the lodge and on the slopes.
Insider Tips – "A lot of our guests book at checkout. Christmas needs to be booked by July 1, although there are spaces available in the dorm pretty much up to late November. There really isn’t a 'best time' to visit. With our 70% return rate, a lot of the regulars time their trips with other regulars. You’d be surprised at how many friendships are built through stays at the lodge."
Bonuses - While the Peruvian has become a mainstay for families and groups, offering up to two-bedroom suites, they also serve those on a budget by offering dorms. Another big plus are the pool, hot tub, and sauna to soothe your exhausted (but happy) ski legs. A shuttle is available to whisk you to the lifts or you can skate.
Skipping out on work to ski? The Alta Peruvian offers a business center and 24-hour coffee to keep you in touch and out of trouble.
Contact
Phone: 800.453.8488
Website
Goldminer’s Daughter
Vibe - Alta's Goldminer's Daughter Lodge is the lodge for skiers who feel nothing should overshadow a good ski day. In fact, they state it right on their website, “Our lodge was built on two main ideas: 1) Skiing comes first. 2) Everything else should help to support or augment the skiing without distracting from it.”
Located at the base of the Collins Lift, you’re just feet from first chair. With breakfast, après ski, and dinner handled, all you have to do is get out the door in time to catch first chair (with a few pocket snacks so you don’t have to stop to refuel).
Insider Tips - "When you use our website or call us at 801-742-2300 to book a stay you are always booking directly with us, and our online booking engine is always up-to-date on availability and room types. February and early March are our busiest times, so book at least 3 months in advance so you don't get left out in the cold!
Guests can book our best rates on stays in early December and we don't require a deposit so BOOKING WITH US IS 100% FLEXIBLE until mid-December! Call us so we can waive the deposit fee. Alta often has great snow and no crowds until the winter holidays, so coming in early season can be a great time to visit.
Check out our Snowstorm specials in January! We love the short cool and snowy winter days that January usually brings, and it is often a great time to snag a deal because it is such a quiet month on the slopes.
If you prefer to let the snow stack up all season but are still looking for that lodging special, Alta in April is chock-full of events and great rates!"
Bonuses – At least once, indulge in the nachos, they are the food legends. Sore feet after skiing yourself silly? The Goldminer’s Daughter Spa offers a 50-minute “ski boot soother” treatment. Because nothing, including sore feet, should interfere with a ski day…
Contact
Phone: 801.742.2300
Website
Alta Lodge
The Vibe – Alta Lodge is like visiting a family retreat. Relaxed, informal, familiar, and a little retro. Guests frequently book their next stay as they leave their current visit. It’s a place where traditions and memories are created.
Daily breakfast and a four-course dinner are included in the room rate.
Tips – Like all of the lodges in the Alta area, early reservations are important during ski season, especially if you need to plan in advance. If you’re visiting last minute, you might get lucky, but have a back-up plan. Also, watch for early and late season specials.
Bonuses – For over 25 years, the Alta Lodge has offered a complimentary Kid’s Club for guests aged 4 to 12 years. This means both the children and adults get to enjoy playtime geared to their age.
