The Cliff Lodge is the signature hotel at Snowbird and the most direct way to turn a Salt Lake City trip into a ski trip. The 10-story lodge stands at the base of the mountain in Little Cottonwood Canyon, about 30 to 45 minutes from the airport, with chairlifts and the aerial tram steps from the door. In winter, you can step out of your room, click into your skis and be on the lift in minutes. In summer, the same building becomes a mountain resort with hiking, biking, an alpine slide and the famous Oktoberfest weekends that bring a festive crowd to the canyon. Rooms are comfortable and many have balconies with views of the cliffs and the slopes, while suites accommodate groups and families. The hotel's best-known amenity is the Cliff Spa on the top floor, with treatments, a rooftop pool and a view of the canyon that is hard to beat after a long ski day. Dining includes several restaurants and bars across the Snowbird village, and the hotel has a sports shop, rental services and a children's program.
Snowbird is known for steep terrain and deep snow, with an average of more than 500 inches a year, and for a season that often runs into May. The tram carries skiers to the 11,000-foot summit in minutes, giving access to some of the most dramatic skiing in North America. Beginners are not left out, with gentle terrain and ski school programs, and families will appreciate the compact village. For non-skiers, the spa, the pool, snowshoeing and the village restaurants make it a pleasant retreat.
The location in Little Cottonwood Canyon comes with advantages and constraints. The scenery is spectacular, and staying on the mountain means no commute, but the canyon road is subject to avalanche control closures during heavy storms, and in winter, traction devices or four-wheel drive are required. Many guests take the airport shuttle or the ski bus, which avoids the stress of mountain driving. Some storms close the road for hours, so build a day of buffer into your travel plans at the start and end of a ski trip, and check road conditions before leaving.
Practical sense
Rates are higher during the peak ski months of December through March, and on holidays and powder weekends. Midweek and spring skiing offer better prices. Lift tickets and rentals are separate, and packages can reduce the cost. In summer, rates drop and the hotel is a gateway to alpine hiking, wildflowers and the canyon's quiet beauty.
Because the village is small, dining options are limited compared with downtown, so consider a night or two in the city to balance a ski week. If you want the snow at your doorstep and a hotel with its own spa, the Cliff Lodge is the obvious choice for a Wasatch ski trip.
Why stay here
- ✓Ski-in, ski-out access
- ✓Rooftop spa and pool
- ✓Aerial tram access
- ✓Multiple on-site restaurants
- ✓Ski rental and shop
- ✓Children programs
- ✓Hiking and summer activities
- ✓Mountain-view rooms and balconies
Good questions
How far is the Cliff Lodge from the airport?+
Roughly 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic and canyon conditions.
Is it ski-in, ski-out?+
Yes, the lodge sits at the base of Snowbird with lifts and the tram steps from the door.
Is it open in summer?+
Yes, with hiking, biking, an alpine slide and seasonal events such as Oktoberfest. Check the resort calendar.