Number 06

The one-two punch combo of Alta and Snowbird makes the Wasatch among the best shred spots in North America. Both resorts are cut from the same cloth: mind-blowing cliffs, chutes and trees, all buried under 500 inches of the best snow in the world.

While the mountain share many similarities (even a ticket should you so choose), they also have distinctly individual flavors. Alta exudes more of a down-home, local feel, while Snowbird is a bit more modern. Chalk Snowbird’s worldliness (and more hectic feeling) up to its world-class tram, which whisks you up 2,900 vertical in 10 minutes, opening up a whole new world of riding. Locals like to test their fate in a no-holds-barred race to the bottom. Their competitor? The Tram. Good luck.

Alta may be a bit calmer, but the annual closing day gathering at the top of Alf’s High Rustler is worth putting on your calendar. Not for the feint of heart, come prepared for the long descent after sunset. Alta is also one of the only mountains in the USA to still deny access to snowboarders, giving it a unique charm and vibe.

The only real downside to the resorts is the lack of nightlife at the base. There are a few legendary watering holes for après in the Canyon, but for anything resembling nightlife, stay down-valley in Salt Lake City.

Resort Ranking:
Snow Quality-10
Terrain Quality-10
Hike-to Access-8
Park Quality-2
Nightlife-0
Accessibility-10

Vital Stats:
Alta.com
Snowbird.com
Vertical: 2,850 feet
Acreage: 4,000 acres
Snowfall: 450 inches
Ticket: $74 (2008-2009)

Web Cam – Alta

North America’s Top 10 Ski Resorts

1. Whistler Blackcomb, BC
2. Aspen/Snowmass, CO
3. Mammoth Mountain
4. Jackson Hole, WY
5. Squaw Valley, CA
6. Alta/Snowbird, UT
7. Breckenridge, CO
8. Telluride, CO
9. Heavenly, CA
10. Vail, CO

Back to Top 10 Index