Park City Mountain Coaster vs Alpine Slide: Which One’s Best?

Planning a trip to Park City Mountain Resort and wondering whether to ride the Mountain Coaster or the Alpine Slide? Both are gravity-fueled thrills, but they deliver very different experiences.
The Mountain Coaster is a high-speed, twisting ride on an elevated track, offering an experience similar to a roller coaster with thrilling curves and drops. On the other hand, the Alpine Slide is a classic summer attraction, letting you glide down the mountain on a smooth concrete track in a sled, giving off more of a laid-back, nostalgic feel.
So which ride is best for you? Are you looking for fast-paced excitement or a scenic, family-friendly glide? In this guide, we’ll compare the two and help you pick the perfect adventure for your trip to Park City Mountain Resort.
1. Park City Mountain Coaster: A Gravity-Fueled Thrill Ride
If you're looking for heart-pounding speed, sharp twists, and an alpine adventure, the Park City Mountain Coaster is the ride for you. Unlike a traditional roller coaster, this one is built into the mountain terrain, meaning you'll be zooming through trees, banking around natural curves, and feeling the rush of gravity as you descend.
What Makes It Stand Out?
- Control Your Own Speed – Want to push the limits at 30 mph? Let go of the brakes and feel the full force of the mountain’s natural slopes. Prefer to enjoy the views? Use the manual handbrake to slow things down and take in the scenery.
- Immersed in Nature – This isn't your typical amusement park ride. The track weaves through dense alpine forests, giving riders the thrill of flying through the trees at high speed.
- 4,000 Feet of Twists, Turns & Drops – With a track stretching over three-quarters of a mile, this is one of Utah’s longest alpine coasters, packed with sudden dips, banked turns, and long straightaways where you can hit top speed.
- A Perfect Off-Slope Adventure – Whether you need a break from skiing or just want to experience the mountain in a new way, the Mountain Coaster is a fantastic après-ski activity.
Who Will Love the Mountain Coaster?
- Adrenaline junkies craving high-speed fun
- Anyone who wants control over their ride
- Visitors looking for a year-round thrill, regardless of the season
2. Park City Alpine Slide: A Classic Summer Thrill
The Park City Alpine Slide is one of the longest alpine slides in the world, offering riders a fun, scenic descent down the mountain on a smooth concrete track. This summer-only attraction is perfect for those who want to experience the thrill of gravity in a more relaxed, family-friendly way.
What Makes It Special?
- A Nostalgic, Timeless Ride – The Alpine Slide is a throwback to old-school mountain fun, making it a great activity for families, kids, and anyone who loves a classic alpine adventure.
- Four Unique Tracks – Unlike the Mountain Coaster, which follows a single fixed steel track, the Alpine Slide offers four different routes, so you can ride multiple times and get a slightly different experience each time.
- Smooth, Easy Glide – The gradual descent and gentle curves make for a relaxed, enjoyable ride. There are no sudden drops or intense turns, just a controlled, scenic slide through the mountain landscape.
- A Summer Must-Do – Since the Alpine Slide only operates in warmer months, it’s a great way to experience the mountain in a whole new way without snow.
Who Should Ride the Alpine Slide?
- Families with kids looking for a fun, safe adventure
- Visitors who enjoy a more laid-back ride
- Anyone who loves classic alpine attractions
3. Ticket Prices & Hours: What You Need to Know
Before heading to Park City Mountain Resort, here’s everything you need to know about ticket prices, operating hours, and the best ways to save money on your visit.
Park City Mountain Coaster & Alpine Slide Ticket Prices (2024-2025):
- Mountain Coaster (Single Ride): $38 per adult, $32 per child (ages 3-12)
- Alpine Slide (Single Ride): $27 per adult, $20 per child (ages 3-12)
- Combo Pass (Coaster + Slide, summer only): $59 per person (Best value for those wanting to experience both rides)
- Unlimited Ride Pass (summer only): $95 per person (Perfect for thrill-seekers who want multiple rides)
- Child Passenger (ages 3-6, riding with an adult): $15 per ride
Operating Hours:
- Mountain Coaster (Year-Round):
- Winter: 12 PM – 4 PM (weather permitting)
- Summer: 10 AM – 6 PM
- Alpine Slide (Summer Only): 10 AM – 6 PM
Location: Both rides are located at Park City Mountain Village, just steps from the resort’s main base area.
4. Mountain Coaster vs. Alpine Slide: Which One Should You Choose?
Still unsure which ride is right for you? Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
Choose the Mountain Coaster if:
- You love high-speed thrills, sharp turns, and a roller coaster feel
- You want a ride that’s open year-round, including in winter
- You enjoy being surrounded by trees for an immersive experience
Choose the Alpine Slide if:
- You prefer a smooth, classic ride with an easygoing descent
- You’re looking for a family-friendly summer activity
- You want to try different routes with multiple track options
But If you have time, just ride both! The experiences are different enough that trying each one will give you the best of both worlds, especially during summer.
Final Verdict: Which Ride Wins?
Honestly? It depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re all about speed, tight curves, and the excitement of a roller coaster, go for the Mountain Coaster. If you prefer a laid-back, nostalgic ride down the mountain, the Alpine Slide is the perfect pick.
Whichever you choose, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable ride with stunning mountain views!
For more Park City travel guides, insider tips, and ticket deals, check out ParkCityDestinations.com, your ultimate resource for all things Park City!
Ready to ride? Pick your adventure and hit the track!