I live in Hawaii on an island with basically no COVID and was very hesitant about taking a ski trip to the mainland. However, given my 20-year relationship with and trust in managers Tom and Kate at Alta's Rustler Lodge and their high-level precautionary COVID protocols laid out for the season, we went for it.

I'm so glad we did. Masks were worn by guests and staff at all times, social distancing was practiced, there were daily temperature checks at breakfast and every aspect of our experience there was as comfortable and safe as it could have been. We did room service our first night as we were easing into the notion of being in a hotel, but then opted for the dining area for the remainder of our stay after seeing just how well run the whole operation was.

I could gush on endlessly about our time there, but will end with my gratitude for the efforts of the entire staff (and fellow guests!) in creating a safe environment during these unusual times.

Bonus: it snowed 3ft in 3 days and we had some epic skiing!

After a year of coming in and out of the COVID lockdowns in NM, I decided to venture out and take my first flight to SLC in over a year to return to the Rustler Lodge. I was hesitant at first after experiencing various interpretations of safety protocols in my home state and a couple of road trips to CO. Armed with N95's and multiple forms of sanitizer, I boarded the flight to SLC. I wanted to Ski! The flight was easy and the blocked seating protocol Delta utilized was effective.

As for the Rustler, there is nothing more reassuring than knowing that the seasoned and experienced management team that has been there since my first visit in 1992 is still there. With Tom at the helm, Kate at the front desk, Tauni in reservations, John at the Bar, Meg in the Dining Room, and Chef Ed preparing the most incredible food daily, this team knows how to ensure the perfect guest experience. Much of the amazing team has been there 10+ years and the place operates like a well-oiled machine.

Never has it ever been as important to have an experienced and organized united front than in the face of the current COVID Pandemic. Guest Safety is clearly a priority. From the moment I walked through the doors, I was impressed by the strict protocol that is adhered to by the entire team. Temperature and Pulse Oximeter readings are taken for every guest that walks through the front door. Prior to every meal, an additional temperature reading is taken for every guest. Every time I walk through the common areas I have found someone on the very attentive team wiping down, sanitizing, and cleaning surfaces, tables, and chairs. Quite frankly the place feels cleaner and more sanitized than any hospital waiting room I've been in.

Complimentary room service is available should you not want to venture into the common areas. While the Sauna and Steam rooms are closed the outdoor heated pool and outdoor hot tub are fantastic and with max numbers set allow for a safe soak at the end of the ski day.

After talking with Tom and Kate I learned that they are staying below 60% occupancy, have an entire floor of rooms dedicated to anyone that shows a hint of a symptom, and have rapid testing on site.

As for Alta LIfts, they too have it together. Signs are everywhere and if your nostrils are showing when you approach the lift you will be asked to fully mask up. In the past 6 days, I never saw one issue, one complaint, or one naysayer try to challenge the policy. It is clear that there is a unified front here in Little Cottonwood Canyon to ensure that everyone stays safe and that the mountain and lodges can stay open.

Pleasantly surprised and grateful for booking my trip to Alta's Rustler Lodge. Highly Recommended!