The 2025-26 Salt Lake ski season is in full swing! Here's your guide to the four legendary Wasatch Mountain ski resorts. Whether you are headed up Little Cottonwood (Alta, Snowbird), Big Cottonwood (Brighton, Solitude) or all four resorts, check out the up-to-date snow conditions on each, so you have all the information you need for an ultimate day on the mountain.
January 2026 Conditions Report
Snowbird
If you’re riding up Little Cottonwood this ski season, chances are you’re in for a treat. Lower than average wait times, 14/14 open lifts and 144 open trails to explore the whole day away. Get in early and leave late because you aren’t going to want to miss any of it. Start off your day in Mineral Basin, where you’ll find the locals. With the sun shining down on the bowl, the snow is ripe for gliding. As you hit midday, find your way down to Gad 2 and experience pure bliss with more than enough runs to satisfy any skier or snowboarder. Looking for a break? Check out Snowbird’s newest addition, The Nest for fine fare and picturesque views.
- Lifts Open: 14/14
- Runs Open: 144/149
- Events:
Alta
Hidden away at the end of Little Cottonwood is the Alta Ski Area. Heading into February with 5/5 lifts open, there is no better time to visit. 111 runs are open so there’s endless terrain and almost no waiting. Bluebird days in the forecast means you can grab those sunnies and hike up to Catherine’s Area and find untouched powder. Take Wildcat lift up and choose from 11 black and blue runs to glide down to the base. Check out the infamous Goldminer’s Daughter or stop mid-mountain at the Watson Shelter for a snack break then head back out for a day of blissful skiing, where the lift close times are some of the latest in the Wasatch.
- Lifts Open: 5/5
- Runs Open: 111/118
- Events:
- Follow Alta on Instagram for more up to date information.
Solitude
Solitude Mountain Resort is riding strong with consistently groomed terrain, dependable coverage on core runs, and a wide mix of cruisers, steeps, and technical lines that keep days feeling dynamic. Faster access via the Eagle Express lift makes getting around the mountain smoother, while Honeycomb Canyon (open, except for avalanche mitigation) continues to be a standout for more adventurous laps. Little Dollie’s is a perfect place for visitors of all ages to get a warm waffle or try an only-in-Utah dirty soda. Add in a high-energy atmosphere on busy days, and Solitude delivers a full, vibrant mountain experience from first chair to last run.
- Lifts Open: 8/8
- Runs Open: 72/82
- Events:
- Head to Moonbeam Patio for a DJ during Apres on Saturday and Sundays in January, February and March
- Explore the Nordic trails of Solitude by moonlight and torch fire, followed by complimentary s’mores and hot chocolate.
- Check out Soli Parks Steel Showdown to show off at Solitude's Rail Jam Series on Feb 15th.
- Follow Solitude on Instagram for more up-to-date information.
Brighton
Brighton Ski Resort is in great shape, with well-groomed runs, dependable coverage across key areas of the mountain, and a strong mix of open terrain for all ability levels. From smooth cruisers to playful park laps and scenic turns through Big Cottonwood Canyon, Brighton delivers consistently fun days on snow. Check out their new Snow Blossom Bistro for some ramen between runs. The resort recently celebrated its 89th season, a reminder of Brighton’s long legacy as one of Utah’s most beloved local mountains. It’s a great time to enjoy corduroy mornings, softer afternoon turns, and Brighton’s laid-back mountain vibe.
- Lifts Open: 8/9
- Runs Open: 72/76
- Events:
- Ski with a Ranger: Join a Naturalist Ranger for a free, guided tour every Thursday in January - March.
- Check out Brighton's Crawfish Broil to celebrate Mardi Gras on February 17th.
- Enjoy Easter at Brighton and start your morning with a pancake breakfast on the Alpine Rose deck.
- Follow Brighton on Instagram for more up-to-date information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it still worth planning a ski trip for the 2025-26 season?
The answer is an obvious yes. This is the perfect time to ski and snowboard at the Big and Little Cottonwood resorts (Alta, Snowbird, Brighton and Solitude). With over 400 runs open, you will have unlimited terrain and full days of skiing and snowboarding.
What should I check before heading up to ski or snowboard?
Make sure to check the condition reports for all four resorts linked here:
Does Utah still have “Greatest Snow on Earth” during low-snow seasons?
Yes! Even in lighter winters, Utah snow remains known for its dry, light powder quality, which often skis better than heavier snow found in other destinations.
Are the Salt Lake ski resorts closing operations?
Nope! Alta, Snowbird, Brighton & Solitude all remain open with core lifts, beginner terrain, and main runs operating and maintained consistently.
Across the Cottonwood Canyons, Alta, Snowbird, Brighton, and Solitude are all delivering strong on-mountain experiences with well-maintained terrain, wide-open runs, and a range of options for every ability level. From big alpine trails in Little Cottonwood to approachable cruisers and lively park scenes in Big Cottonwood, each resort brings its own personality while offering consistently enjoyable days on snow. Together, the four resorts offer more than 400 runs served by nearly 40 lifts, showcasing the variety, scenery, and energy that make skiing and riding in the Wasatch such a standout experience.
