Alta Snow Conditions Overview
Alta in Utah, USA sits at 3,374m (11,070ft) elevation and averages 490cm of annual snowfall based on 10 years of historical data (2015-2025). During the ski season, Alta receives approximately 400cm of snow. The best month for powder is March, averaging 78.9cm of snowfall with a 50% powder probability. The highest chance of fresh powder (15cm+ in any given week) occurs in January and March at 53%.
- Annual Snowfall
- 490cm
- Elevation
- 3,374m
- Best Month
- March
- Powder Probability
- 53%
Snowfall data sourced from ERA5 reanalysis via Open-Meteo Historical Weather API (2015-2025).
Check Alta snow forecast for your dates
Based on 10 years of historical snowfall data
About Alta
Alta snowfall statistics based on 10 years of historical data. See average annual snowfall, best months to ski, and powder probability to help you plan your trip.
Snow & Weather Conditions
We use 10 years of historical data to help you plan — not a live snow report.
Utah's legendary slogan "The Greatest Snow on Earth" is backed by science — the unique lake-effect weather pattern from the Great Salt Lake produces incredibly light, dry powder with low moisture content. The high elevation ensures a cold, consistent climate that favours natural snow preservation. Storms frequently deliver generous totals, and the altitude keeps the snowpack dense and skiable throughout the core winter months. Most winters deliver 6-10 metres of cumulative snow, compressing into a 2-metre-plus base by the middle of the season.
Best Time to Ski
The best time to ski at Alta is January and March, with 78.2cm average snowfall and 53% powder probability. Based on 10 years of historical snowfall data from PowderDays. Season runs November to late April. January and February typically deliver the most consistent powder days. Review PowderDays' long-range snowfall records to choose travel dates backed by a decade of observations.
Powder Probability by Month
Chance of 15cm+ fresh snow in any given week (10 years of data):
- Nov28%
- Dec39%
- Jan53%
- Feb49%
- Mar50%
- Apr42%
10-Year Snow History
| Month | Avg Snowfall (cm) | Record High | Record Low | Powder Probability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov | 47.0 | 71.5 | 27.0 | 28% |
| Dec | 60.3 | 120.7 | 33.1 | 39% |
| Jan | 78.2 | 156.7 | 23.5 | 53% |
| Feb | 72.6 | 120.6 | 15.3 | 49% |
| Mar | 78.9 | 155.1 | 40.7 | 50% |
| Apr | 62.9 | 103.7 | 22.7 | 42% |
What Makes It Special
Steep, expert-friendly terrain dominates, from tight tree runs to wide powder-filled bowls. Many resorts offer over 3,000 vertical feet of skiing. Utah resorts are known for easy access from Salt Lake City (often under an hour), friendly locals, and a growing food and craft-drink scene.
"The Greatest Snow on Earth" is Utah's official trademarked tourism slogan. Research from the University of Utah's Department of Atmospheric Sciences confirms that Utah snow averages just 8.5% water content compared to the 12% typical of other regions, making it measurably lighter and drier.
Data Sources & Methodology
All snowfall statistics for Alta are based on 10 years of historical data (2015-2025) from the Open-Meteo Historical Weather API, which provides ERA5 reanalysis data from the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF). Daily snowfall totals are queried at Alta's coordinates (40.59, -111.64) and 3,374m elevation, then aggregated into monthly averages, record highs/lows, and powder probability scores. Powder probability represents the chance of receiving 15cm or more of fresh snow in any given week during that month.