The Snowbird heliport bypass road is a road connecting Snowbird and Alta commonly used when the main highway is closed for avalanche control. It requires a 4WD/AWD vehicle and cautious driving on a steep, snow-packed surface. This guide explains how to check its real-time status and use it safely.

What is the Snowbird-Alta Bypass Road?

The Snowbird heliport bypass road is a narrow, two-lane service route that connects Snowbird Ski Resort and Alta when extreme avalanche danger closes the main highway, State Route 210, between them. The road exists to bypass the notorious 'Hellgate' and 'Superior' slide paths, which can bury the highway in minutes. When SR-210 is impassable, this road becomes the only way for vehicles to travel between the two resort base areas.

Starting near the Cliff Lodge at Snowbird's Entry 4, the road winds uphill before ending at the Alta bypass gate near the Alta Peruvian Lodge. As a private road, its use is governed by strict rules designed for safety, most importantly the requirement for 4WD or AWD vehicles.

Local's Tip: Think of this road as a safety valve, not a public highway. Its availability is a privilege that depends on everyone driving responsibly. When SR-210 closes, this is the only link between the two world-class resorts.

When is the Bypass Road Open?

The Snowbird-Alta bypass road operates on a specific, condition-dependent schedule. It opens for the winter season only after UDOT closes the main SR-210 summer road between the resorts and closes in the spring when that same highway segment reopens.

Its daily status, however, can change at a moment's notice. The road can close without warning due to sudden snow squalls, resort operations, or other safety concerns. It frequently closes overnight for maintenance and safety.

How to Use the Bypass Road Safely

Safe travel on the bypass road depends on having the right information, the right vehicle, and the right mindset.

1. Check the Live Road Status

Before you even head up Little Cottonwood Canyon, you must confirm the bypass is open. Cell service is unreliable in the canyon, so check the status before you lose your signal.

• Live Data: The most reliable sources are the UDOT Traffic App and the official mountain reports on the Alta and Snowbird websites. Our Little Cottonwood Canyon cameras page on Wasatch Roads also provides a direct view of current conditions.
• Best Time to Travel: To avoid traffic jams, try to travel mid-day between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. The road gets very congested right after lifts close.

2. Meet Vehicle Requirements

This is non-negotiable. The road's steep grades and slick, snow-packed surface are unforgiving.

• Vehicle Type: A 4WD or AWD vehicle is mandatory. A 2WD car will almost certainly get stuck and block the entire road.
• Tires: Proper snow tires provide a massive advantage in traction and control. For a complete overview, see our Little Cottonwood Canyon winter driving guide.

alt: A four-wheel-drive vehicle navigating the snowy and narrow Snowbird heliport bypass road between snow-covered trees.

3. Follow Mountain Driving Rules

Once you are on the road, drive slowly and defensively. This is not a race; it's a cautious mountain traverse.

• Uphill Has Right-of-Way: Downhill traffic must always yield to uphill traffic. It is much harder for an uphill vehicle to regain momentum on a slick surface.
• Keep Your Distance: Leave a very large gap between you and the vehicle ahead. Sudden stops are common, and you will need the extra space to stop safely on ice and snow.
• Be Patient: Expect delays. This short connector can take much longer to drive than you think, especially when it's busy.

Pro Tip: Never follow another vehicle through a closed gate. Resort or emergency crews may be using the road when it's closed to the public, and you could get trapped with no way out.

FAQ: Snowbird-Alta Bypass Road

What happens if my car gets stuck on the bypass road?

If your vehicle becomes stuck, it can obstruct the sole connection between the two resorts, causing significant inconvenience for everyone involved. Remain with your vehicle and contact a mountain-equipped tow service, though be prepared for a lengthy wait, especially in stormy conditions. This is why the 4WD/AWD rule is mandatory.

Can I use the bypass road if I am not a skier?

Yes, non-skiers are permitted to use the bypass road as it is a public road passing through the town of Alta. There is parking available for the Snowbird ski resort along the road, with some areas requiring payment.

Is the bypass the only way to get between Snowbird and Alta in winter?

When State Route 210 is closed between the two resorts, the heliport bypass road is the only route available for vehicles. There are ski lifts connecting the resorts for guests with the necessary passes. The road may occasionally close for avalanche mitigation.