marzNC
Angel Diva
It's far more than checking for Tweets up in the canyons for Alta. The primary Twitter account is #Alta Alerts. UTDOT has several others related to the LCC/BCC canyons roads as well as the general UTDOT traffic map. Definitely pays to check one way or another before heading down in the afternoon as well.So they tweet or something when the lots are near full? You'll have to tell us how it goes tomorrow. There isn't cell service along the highway to Crystal for the last hour of the drive so unfortunately it wouldn't work here.
There is a webpage for Alta specifically about parking and road conditions for RT210. Includes the main UTDOT traffic cameras. There are electronic signs at the base of LCC showing status. I read somewhere that once the Alta parking lots are full, uphill drivers will be stopped and have to talk to a traffic monitor in order to be allowed to continue on. Exceptions include employees, someone doing a pick up only, or other reasons where it's clear the person is not going to park. UTDOT has been managing traffic during the winter for LCC and BCC for decades. So what's happening for 2020-21 is not that much different. Might even be a little easier since Snowbird is using parking reservations and all the ski areas/resorts are limiting capacity by not selling as many day tickets.
Here are the tweets from last weekend as an example.
Sat, Dec. 12, 2020 - 6+ inches new snow
5:00a
The traction law is now in effect for both Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons. Make sure you’re properly equipped with traction devices before heading up OR down canyon!
8:14am
Parking is limited today. Plan to arrive early or ski this afternoon.
9:00am
Parking is expected to be full by 10am. Please plan to arrive at Alta soon, take the
@RideUTA
Ski Bus or ski this afternoon.
10:22am
Parking is now full. Take the
@RideUTA
Ski Bus or ski this afternoon. Follow the Parking and Road page for updates throughout the day.
12:36pm
Parking spots have opened up in Wildcat, Albion and the Town of Alta. And it's still snowing! Spend your afternoon enjoying the fresh snow at Alta.