Alta, UT – It’s no secret that traffic in Utah’s Little Cottonwood Canyon can be frustrating on busy ski days, and a quick observation verifies that many of the cars climbing the canyon carry only a driver.
On many weekends this season, parking lots have filled at both Alta and Snowbird, the two ski resorts in Little Cottonwood Canyon. Drivers have reported traffic jams on powder days that have resulted two-hour drives to the resorts located only eight miles up the canyon.
While the Mountain Accord and other groups investigate ways to alleviate traffic congestion and vehicle pollution in both Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons, Alta Ski Area is looking into ways to help reduce the problem now. In partnership with the Alta Environmental Center, the University of Utah’s Environmental and Sustainability Studies Internship Program will be testing a preferred carpool parking strategy in Alta’s Wildcat Base parking lot. On the days of the study, private vehicles with two, three or more passengers (including the driver) will receive preferential parking closer to the lifts and the lodge.
On study days, an optional survey will be given to the public regarding their experience with this new parking strategy. This study will provide Alta Ski Area with a better understanding of its guests’ habits, allowing the ski area to determine future parking needs that are both convenient and support environmental friendly initiatives.
This parking test and surveys for this study will take place on the following dates:
- February 17th, 19th, and 20th (Wednesday, Friday and Saturday)
- March 2nd, 4th, and 5th (Wednesday, Friday and Saturday)
- March 9th, 11th, and 12th (Wednesday, Friday and Saturday)