Valentines Day is a winter holiday. That’s lucky for us skiers, because it leaves little question about where to take our loved ones on Valentines Day. But no ski resort is alike, and there’s a reason why people say Alta is for lovers – because it’s the most romantic mountain in all of Utah. Here’s 5 reasons why a date at the top of Little Cottonwood Canyon is perfect for the big V-Day.
1. Wildcat Lift. This day in age, there are fewer and fewer double chairs at ski resorts, and while many resorts still have them, the Wildcat chair at Alta is the most romantic. A slow double is like a loveseat in the sky, where you can spend some quality alone-time together. And Wildcat stand out for the breathtaking view of Mount Superior that provides a backdrop for photos of your sweetie. If the Collins lift is crowded and you don’t want to share the lift with grungy locals, just do laps under Wildcat and feel like you have the whole mountain all to yourself.
2. Alta Powder. It’s no secret that Alta has the deepest powder in Utah. So if you’re lucky, Valentines Day might be a powder day. Of course when you’re with your spouse or boyfriend/girlfriend, the saying, “there are no friends on a powder day” absolutely does not apply. Stick together and shred the light and fluffy and it’ll bring you closer like no other substance on earth. Plus, post-faceshot kisses add a whole new dimension to necking in the woods.
3. Alta Groomers. A big secret at Alta is how good the groomed runs can be if it hasn’t snowed in a while. If Valentines Day leaves us high and dry, get up above the inversion in the warm, mountain sun and cruise the corduroy. These are my wife’s favorite kind of days, and the groomed runs under Collins, Supreme and Sugarloaf are her favorite lines in the Wasatch.
4. The Sun Deck at Goldminer’s Daughter. If it’s a warm, sunny day at Alta, you have to hit the deck with your sweetie at Goldminer’s. It’s the place to see and be seen as all of Alta’s characters gather here at the end of the day to soak in some rays, grab a bite to eat, and enjoy a cold beer.
5. Alta Peruvian Bar. If it’s cold or you ski until the sun passes out, then head over to the Alta Peruvan Bar, or the “P-Dog” as the locals call it. This cozy tavern is located in the Peruvian Lodge and offers complimentary hors d’oeuvres and popcorn to go along with your drink. There’s a good beer selection with full-strength brews in bottles, a full bar for mixed drinks, and even a ghetto ring-toss game. Plus, the Peruvian is a sweet place if you’re looking to stay the night for… you know… a romantic Valentines tryst.
Bonus. If you’re without a pooky-bear on Valentines Day, go to Alta anyway. You can roll the dice in the single’s line and maybe meet that guy/gal of your dreams on the lift. Chances are you’ll get along… after all, you’re both skiers.
For more information or reservations, head over to Alta.com, and have a happy Valentine’s Day!