2026-01-02T11:00:00-07:00
* WHAT...Snow expected. Snow accumulations between 4 to 12 inches expected. Locally higher totals above 1 foot possible in the Upper Cottonwoods. * WHERE...Wasatch Mountains South of I-80 and Western Uinta Mountains. * WHEN...From 8 AM Thursday to 11 AM MST Friday. * IMPACTS...Winter driving conditions are expected. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - Snow begins Thursday morning, with a potential for a lull in the late afternoon and evening. Snow reinvigorates in the late evening, with heaviest snowfall rates expected Thursday night into early Friday morning. - Snow levels will increase through the day Thursday, peaking around 8500 ft in the evening before dropping to around 7000 ft early Friday morning. Snowfall accumulations will be heavily dependent on elevation as a result.
Alta Ski Area Ski Report
Rate this placeLast Updated: January 1, 2026
Ring in the New Year with powder perfection at Alta Ski Area! Alta Ski Area is a world-renowned ski resort in Utah, United States.
Snowfall Totals & Snow Forecast
Hourly Snowfall
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Summary
As of January 1, 2026, the mountain greets skiers and riders with a 24-inch snowpack supported by a solid Snow Water Equivalent of 7.9 inches—ideal conditions for carving through Utah’s legendary terrain. Overnight temperatures hovered around a mild 33.4°F, keeping the snow soft and ski-ready for the day’s first tracks. The resort reports great coverage across most runs, with grooming teams having worked overnight to deliver smooth corduroy on key trails.
Even better, Mother Nature isn’t done yet. Alta is poised for a deep refresh with 5.5 inches of fresh powder expected in the next 24 hours, 14.2 inches on the way over 72 hours, and a whopping 20 inches forecast over the next five days. With no major developments in the local news, all attention can turn to the slopes. Expect increasing snowfall throughout the week—a perfect storm for powder hounds looking to start 2026 knee-deep in some of the best snow on Earth. Don’t miss your chance to kick off the season with fresh tracks and unforgettable alpine adventure.
Snowstake Cam
Weather Forecast
Seasonal Comparison
Year over year snow water equivalent
Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) shows how much water the snow holds. This is ideal for year-to-year tracking of real snowfall and water resources. Measurements from Nohrsc Atwater.
Regional Snowpack Depth
Snow levels measured from Nohrsc Atwater
Snowpack depth measures how much snow has accumulated in the area. This is a key indicator of powder quality, trail coverage, and how epic your runs are going to be this season at Alta Ski Area.
Historical Air Temperature
Temperature fluctuations at Alta Ski Area
Recent air temperature fluctuations at Alta Ski Area impact snow quality and stability, from powder to slush.
About the Area
The pertinent mountain ranges and mountain aspects of Alta Ski Area in the United States include:
1. The Wasatch Mountain Range: Alta Ski Area is located in the Wasatch Mountains in Utah. The Wasatch Range is known for its steep terrain, deep snow, and challenging ski runs.
2. Baldy Mountain: Baldy Mountain is the main peak at Alta Ski Area, with a summit elevation of 11,068 feet. It offers a variety of ski runs ranging from beginner to expert level.
3. Sugarloaf Mountain: Sugarloaf Mountain is another prominent peak at Alta Ski Area, with a summit elevation of 11,051 feet. It is known for its challenging terrain and steep slopes.
4. Mount Superior: Mount Superior is a prominent peak located near Alta Ski Area, with a summit elevation of 11,040 feet. It offers some of the most challenging and technical ski runs in the area.
5. Devil's Castle: Devil's Castle is a distinctive rock formation located within Alta Ski Area. It is known for its rugged terrain and steep chutes, making it a popular destination for expert skiers.
Overall, Alta Ski Area offers a unique and diverse range of mountain terrain, with steep slopes, deep powder, and challenging ski runs for all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
With over 2,200 acres of skiable terrain, it offers some of the best skiing in North America. One of its most famous trails is High Rustler, which is considered one of the most challenging in the world. Interestingly, Alta was one of the first ski areas in the United States to allow snowboarding in 2008. For beginners, we recommend taking the Sunnyside lift and trying out the gentle slopes of Albion Basin. After a long day on the slopes, a visit to the Sitzmark Club is a must for the best après ski experience with live music and drinks.
Alta Ski Area FAQ
How much snow did Alta Ski Area receive over the past day?
The ski area received -1" of new snowfall since yesterday.
What's the weather like at Alta Ski Area today?
Weather today, snow. high near 33. south southwest wind 11 to 13 mph. chance of precipitation is 100%. new snow accumulation of 3 to 5 inches possible.
How much new snowfall is forecasted for Alta Ski Area this week?
Alta Ski Area is expected to receive up to 20.65" of new snowfall in the next 5 days.
What are some ski resorts near Alta Ski Area?
Brighton Ski Resort
Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort
Solitude Mountain Resort
Park City Mountain Resort
What are ski area conditions in Utah like right now?
Utah’s ski outlook is promising this week, with the Wasatch Range expected to see the highest snowfall. Brighton and Alta are forecast to receive 23" and 20" respectively over the next five days, making them premier picks for powder seekers. Close behind, Snowbird is expecting 22", and Mill-D North near Big Cottonwood Canyon is forecast at 21". Thaynes Canyon, adjacent ... Read more
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