Snowbird’s New R.I.D.E. App Aims to Reduce Wasatch Traffic

The app aims to cut down on traffic and emissions. Snowbird photo.

Ask anyone who regularly drives from Salt Lake City to the ski areas along Little Cottonwood Canyon about the traffic on UT-210 and be prepared for a rant. An attempt to get there on a weekend powder day will invariably result in a 2+ hour wait along the access road, with no guarantee of parking upon arrival. With these issues in mind, Snowbird has launched the R.I.D.E. (Reducing Individual Driving for the Environment) Program in an effort to reduce traffic and emissions associated with skiers heading up the canyon.  

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The program offers rewards as well as feel-good metrics for users. Snowbird photo.

The free app currently has nine pickup locations in the Salt Lake City area, and works similarly to Lyft or Uber. Riders can find a seat in a car heading to the Bird and drivers who offer seats get rewarded for their efforts with VIP parking, and earn points towards other incentives.  After a strong initial performance, the program's masterminds are hopeful that usage will continue to grow and alleviate traffic and emissions.  

Zack Skovron
Zack Skovron
Author
Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, now living in Jackson, WY. I’m an avid skier, biker, hiker, climber, and fisherman. Outside of sports, my major interests focus on public policy surrounding land use and energy systems.
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