The Only Time Snowboarders are Allowed at Alta Has Begun

Are you not ready to let go of ski season in the Wasatch quite yet? Or maybe you didn't make it up to Alta this season, and now you've missed the boat? Or better yet, perhaps you're a snowboarder who's always dreamed of riding Alta's terrain?

If you fall into any of those categories, we have great news for you. Alta Ski Area is now open for uphill travel, as of Wednesday, April 29, 2026.

Backcountry users, including splitboarders/snowboarders (Alta is one of three remaining ski areas in the U.S. that does not allow snowboarding during normal operating hours), are now allowed to access Alta's terrain for recreation following the ski area's season closure.

Alta reminds users that the ski area operates under a special use permit with the Wasatch-Cache National Forest, which allows restricting uphill travel to protect ski area improvements, employees, and skiers for operational or safety purposes.

Uphill users at Alta should treat the terrain as backcountry at this time and are responsible for assessing avalanche hazards and risk. There is no ski patrol on site, as the ski area is closed for the season.

Skiers should carry and know how to use avalanche equipment and be prepared for backcountry conditions. Additionally, hazards are unmarked, and equipment may be encountered on the mountain. Uphill access at Alta does not provide access to Snowbird either.