An Insider's Guide

Don't Leave It To Beginner's Luck

Whether you've been visiting Snowbird for decades or are making your first pilgrimage, we want to help you make the most out of your time in Little Cottonwood Canyon. With that in mind, we've compiled a list of tried and true tips, how-tos and recommendations.

Buy Your Lift Tickets Online Before You Arrive

Simply put, you save big on lift tickets when you purchase online in advance, compared to day-of. When you arrive at Snowbird, pick up your pass at the ticket windows or one of the resort’s convenient ticket kiosks at the Snowbird Center, Creekside Lodge and The Cliff Lodge.

Download Your Personal Guide to Snowbird

If it’s happening at Snowbird, it’s on our mobile app. Not only can you use this app to track your day and friends on the mountain, but it’s the quickest way to check the latest on lift and terrain status, road conditions and more.

Plan Your Commute up Little Cottonwood Canyon

Snowbird season passholders and Ikon passholders can ride the UTA Ski Bus for free, while those visiting for the day can purchase a ticket. You can also arrange for a pick-up by the Cottonwood Connect van shuttle ($10 per person, round trip). Canyon Transport offers transportation to and from the Salt Lake International Airport.

If You Are Driving Your Car

Review the maps and paid parking options on Snowbird's parking page before your arrival. Snowbird encourages carpooling with designated carpool lots in premium locations. On the morning of your ski day, ensure your gas tank is full, and stock your car with extra snacks and water, as traffic delays are common on powder days and weekends.

Be Strategic About Lunch

Snowbird's eateries see the highest volume of hungry skiers and riders during the typical Noon-1:30 pm lunch period. Those looking to maximize riding time should plan to eat lunch before or after that timeframe. Other factors to keep in mind: The Forklift and SeventyOne both offer belly-warming sit down lunches daily, while the deli inside General Gritts offers quick, made-to-order hot and cold sandwiches, as well as breakfast burritos. Additional grab-and-go options include The Summit, located at Snowbird's peak; Mid-Gad, located halfway down Gad Valley for a mid-run bite; Creekside Café at Gad Valley's base. Whether you want something on the go or need a ski break, there's an option to keep you fueled for your day on the mountain.

Plan Your Departure Around Peak Travel Times

Maximize your time on the mountain by planning your commute around peak travel times. Avoid downhill delays by leaving before 4 pm or sticking around for aprés ski by enjoying delicious food and a relaxing libation after a day well-spent. Snowbird’s full-service après options include The Aerie Lounge, where swanky meets comfy on the 10th floor of The Cliff Lodge; The Forklift, where you can be cozy indoors by the circular fireplace or sit outside on the sunny Snowbird Center Plaza Deck; SeventyOne, The Cliff Lodge’s retro-cool eatery with a heated, mountain-facing patio; or Snowbird’s signature sports bar, The Tram Club, located on Level 1 of Snowbird Center. Got kids with you? Grab some snacks, drinks, beer or even a bottle of wine at General Gritts and have an après-ski picnic at one of the tables on the Plaza Deck or tailgate at your car. To extend your après into an evening of relaxation and recovery, enjoy the hot tub, breathe deeply in the eucalyptus steam room, relieve sore muscles at a yoga class or get a massage at The Cliff Spa.

Join in the Fun

Though skiing and snowboarding are the main attraction at Snowbird, there's more to be experienced. Get the scoop on live music, avalanche safety classes, gear demos, on-mountain competitions, holiday celebrations and more by looking at The Bird’s stacked events calendar.

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