Deep dive into Snowbird’s parking problem

I have reviewed and compiled all parking-related posts from Snowbird Resort over the past three snow seasons. Let the data speak for itself.

Over the past three snow seasons, the number of times the parking lots were completely full has skyrocketed. During the 21/22 season, it only happened four times. However, in the 22/23 and 23/24 seasons, this number surged to over 20 times. The parking spaces included in this data are both free parking and same-day paid parking, but do not include season-long parking permits. This clearly shows an exponential increase in traffic flow.

Looking at the time when parking lots became full, the median time (along with the 25% and 75% quartiles) has progressively gotten earlier over the three seasons. This means parking spaces are being filled up earlier and earlier, and people are heading up the mountain earlier as well—competition is intensifying.

I’ve also collected snowfall data and time when each lift opened for the past 3 seasons. Complete dataset available in LiftAlert App.

It’s also important to note that on powder days, avalanche control often requires road closures, and many cars line up at the road entrance early to wait. Don’t assume that if Google Maps shows an 8:00 AM arrival, you’ll be able to find a spot just because the lot fills at 8:00. You must arrive early and line up in advance.