OTS Backcountry Guide: Wasatch Range, Utah

9th February 2012 | Josh Cooley

Resorts in this article: Alta Ski Area, Snowbird

Brant Moles skiing Mt. Superior in Little Cottonwood Canyon. Mt. Superior is a Wasatch classic and im always looking to find a new angle on this iconic peak. I love how this shot gives the canyon a euro feel. The Wasatch isnt the biggest range out there but its packed tight with terrain and most lines drain right to one of the many canyon roads. Its the perfect combination for a plentiful backcountry touring experience.

Utah’s Wasatch Range is 160 miles long, and it would take years to even explore a fraction of the terrain. Luckily, well-defined backcountry routes already exist.

Catherine Pass at the top of Little Cottonwood Canyon is a good place to start in the Wasatch. It’s easy to access, so it can get busy, but you’ll get fresh lines if you go early and on weekdays. The terrain suits beginners to backcountry experts, with a little bit of everything from steep chutes to mellow sheltered trees.

Next, try Upper Silver Fork Canyon which contains a wide variety of north, east and west facing terrain with big open bowls, ridgelines, trees and endless natural features to play with all day. Start early to get multiple laps and discover the best lines in this snowy playground. Simply park at the winter gate at the top of the road in Alta and start ascending.

Finally, Mount Superior is a must for hardcore, expert backcountry skiers and riders. It looms over the [R10R, Alta] and [R404R, Snowbird] ski areas and tops out at 11,132 feet. Beginners and intermediates shouldn’t even consider ascending this mountain. This peak has high avalanche potential, but on the right day, it’s magical.