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Alta Today
By the People, for the People
Avalanche Danger Prompts Overnight Interlodge at Utah Ski Resorts
Alta Ski Area and Snowbird Resort enforce safety measures amid heavy snowfall
Published on Feb. 25, 2026
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Heavy snowfall in Utah's Little Cottonwood Canyon has prompted the Alta Ski Area and Snowbird Resort to enforce overnight interlodge restrictions due to high avalanche danger. Both resorts have received several feet of snow in recent days, leading to the closure of Highway 210 and the implementation of interlodge, which requires guests to remain indoors while avalanche mitigation work is conducted. The interlodge restrictions have since been lifted, but the avalanche risk remains a concern as more snow is expected in the region.
Why it matters
Avalanche danger is a serious concern in Utah's mountainous regions, especially in areas with high-elevation, avalanche-prone terrain like Little Cottonwood Canyon. The enforcement of interlodge at ski resorts is a critical safety measure to protect guests and staff during periods of extreme weather and heightened avalanche risk.
The details
Alta Ski Area and Snowbird Resort in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah, have received several feet of snow over the past few days, prompting both resorts to enforce overnight interlodge restrictions. Interlodge requires guests to remain indoors due to extreme weather conditions or avalanche danger while avalanche mitigation work is being done. Highway 210, which serves the two resorts, has a Utah Department of Transportation Avalanche Hazard Index of 766, the highest in North America, indicating the highway is very dangerous during winter storms.
- On Wednesday, Alta Ski Area closed at 2:30 p.m. local time due to heavy snowfall.
- Overnight, UDOT closed State Route 210 and both Alta Ski Area and Snowbird Resort enforced interlodge travel restrictions.
- The interlodge restrictions were lifted a little before 8:30 a.m. Thursday morning.
The players
Alta Ski Area
A ski resort located in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah.
Snowbird Resort
A ski resort located in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah.
Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT)
The state agency responsible for maintaining Utah's transportation infrastructure, including Highway 210 in Little Cottonwood Canyon.
What they’re saying
“Most Interlodge events last only a few hours and are pre-planned. Under Alta town ordinances, violating Interlodge is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to a $1,000 fine and six months in jail.”
— Snowbird Resort (foxweather.com)
What’s next
As more snow is expected in the region, the avalanche risk will remain a concern for the ski resorts and local authorities. Continued monitoring and avalanche mitigation efforts will be necessary to ensure the safety of guests and staff.
The takeaway
The enforcement of interlodge at ski resorts in Utah's mountainous regions is a critical safety measure to protect against the dangers of avalanches during periods of heavy snowfall. This incident highlights the importance of preparedness and cooperation between ski resorts, transportation agencies, and local authorities to ensure the safety of winter sports enthusiasts.
