Explore Alta’s Mining History

From Silver Mines, to Ski Slopes

Take a hike back in time through Alta’s Grizzly Gulch with Utah State Historic Preservation Officer Chris Merritt and experts from Utah Cultural Site Stewardship. Learn about the rich mining history dating back to the late 1800s, and how it helped spark early conservation efforts and innovation in the ski industry—shaping the Alta we know today.

• Registration required.
• When: Saturday, September 5th | 8:30–11am
• Where: Town of Alta | Grizzly Gulch

About
- 3-mile hike with ~1,000 ft elevation gain on moderately technical terrain
- Recommended for intermediate and advanced hikers

History of Alta
Before Alta was a ski destination, it was a booming mining town filled with prospectors hoping to strike it rich in ore and silver—though few ever did. A small settlement at the base of the mountains—what is now the Transfer Tow—supported hundreds of miners, mistresses and families. To fuel the growing industry, the surrounding forests were heavily logged, quickly leaving the slopes barren. With little to hold soil and snow in place that rested upon the steep slopes, deadly avalanches and landslides frequently swept through the town.

Despite repeated rebuilding, Alta became a ghost town by the early 1900s as resources dwindled and the economy collapsed. In an effort to restore the landscape, the State of Utah and the U. S. Forest Service brought in the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) to carry out restoration work in Little Cottonwood Canyon—laying the groundwork for what would become the Alta Ski Area.

While conservation efforts continue today, this history remains just beneath the surface—echoing stories of the Old West, hardworking miners, drinking and duels.

Michigan Utah Mines in Grizzly Gulch, with an ore tram in the foreground. The tram once ran down to Tanner’s Flat and later became the first Collins lift. | Photo: Utah Historical Society

Partners
- Utah Cultural Site Stewardship Program