Driving the Summer Road at Alta Ski Area in the summer is a breathtaking experience that immerses you in the rugged beauty of the Wasatch Mountains. As you ascend along the winding 2.5 mile dirt road, lush alpine meadows and towering peaks surround you, painting a picturesque backdrop for your journey.
There is a $12 amenity fee to drive the Summer Road. This fee helps maintain the infrastructure and facilities along the route while managing visitation and ensuring an enjoyable experience for all visitors.
The Summer Road is located at the end of Highway 210 in Little Cottonwood Canyon, providing access to the Albion Basin.
A few reminders:
- The Summer Road is a dirt road not suitable for low-clearance vehicles
- The speed limit is 15 mph on the Summer Road—slow your roll and enjoy the ride
- Roadside parking is not allowed—all vehicles must park in designated parking lots
- You may be fined or towed for parking illegally
Summer Road Fee Booth
As you leave the Town of Alta and approach the end of Highway 210, you will encounter the Summer Road Fee Booth. The staff is more than happy to answer any questions you may have about the Summer Road. They likely have trail recommendations and insider info about wildlife in the area. Make sure to pick up your Summer Trail Map at the Fee Booth.
Don't be surprised if you are waiting in line at the Fee Booth. Access to the Summer Road is based on parking availability, it is not uncommon to wait in line during peak visitation periods. Wait times can vary greatly—please be respectful of the staff.
- The Summer Road Fee Booth is staffed from 7am to 8:30pm
- Self-pay at the fee booth is required between 8:30pm and 7am—parking is not guaranteed during these hours
- The Summer Road Fee Booth accepts cash or credit cards
Catherine's Pass Trailhead
As you drive up the Albion Basin Summer Road, climbing past the Memorial Grove pullout, the vibrant greenery contrasts with the snow-capped summits, creating a scene straight out of a postcard. The road leads you to Catherine's Pass Trailhead. This parking area provides easy access to the wildflowers of the Albion Meadow and the starting point for a hike to Catherine's Pass and the Brighton Lakes. The parking lot is home to bathrooms and a kiosk displaying a large trail map and helpful hiking and trail information.
Cecret Lake Trailhead
The Summer Road ends at the Albion Basin Campground, home to the Cecret Lake Trailhead and the start of the popular Cecret Lake interpretive hiking trail. A large kiosk marks the start of the interpretive hike. Bathrooms can be found near the parking areas and in the campground.
Make sure to stop by the Alta Store located in the Albion Basin Campground. Here, you can stock up on essentials like snacks, water and sunscreen, ensuring you're fully prepared for your adventure. Stop by the Alta Camp Store after your excursion for cold drinks, ice cream or some Alta merch to take home. The Alta Store staff are extremely knowledgeable and are more than happy to chat or answer questions.
Hiking or Biking the Summer Road
Did you know? You can skip the fee booth by hiking or biking to Catherine's Pass Trailhead and Cecret Lake Trailhead via the Summer Road or the Upper Albion Meadows trail.
Free trailhead parking can be found at the Albion base area, Wildcat base area, Town of Alta and the Grizzly Gulch lot—located near the Summer Road fee booth.
Summer Road in the Fall
The Summer Road will stay open to vehicles through November 1st unless weather conditions prevent the road from being driven safely. Any changes to the opening and closing status of the Summer Road will be posted on this page.