The G (Pleasant Grove) from Battle Creek TH
Hike Time (roundtrip): 1.5 to 2.5 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 1.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 835 feet
Main Aspect: West
Climb Rate: 928 feet per mile
Average Grade: 18%
Notes: The hike to the G can be done in an hour. The first part is really steep, but gets better once you get to the oak.
Trailhead
Battle Creek TH
Battle Creek TH
Trailhead Elevation: 5235 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes
Area: Utah Valley
Area Location: Various locations on east and north ends of the valley
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Notes: Drive east on 200 S in Pleasant Grove to Battle Creek Park. It is the location of an early skirmish between the pioneers and the Indians living in the area. Pleasant Grove was originally named Battle Creek.
Destination
The G (Pleasant Grove)
The G (Pleasant Grove)
Elevation: 6070 Feature: Trail-Iconic
Notes: The G was built on the mountain between Battle Creek and Grove Creek by the people of Pleasant Grove. Its made with strips of sheet metal.
Showing posts with label hard hikes. Show all posts
Showing posts with label hard hikes. Show all posts
Thursday, June 30, 2016
White Baldy
White Baldy from White Pine TH via Upper Red Pine Lake
Hike Time (roundtrip): 5.5 to 9.0 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 9.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 3661 feet
Main Aspect: All Directions
Climb Rate: 763 feet per mile
Average Grade: 14%
Notes: Take the right fork off the White Pine Trail to hike up to Upper Red Pine Lake. From there climb the boulder field to the ridge, then follow it to the peak.
Trailhead: White Pine TH
Trailhead Elevation: 7660 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 5.3 miles
Area: Little Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 9400 S (SR210) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: Watch for a sign that says White Pine Trailhead about half way up Little Cottonwood Canyon, just after passing Tanners Flat. It is a good size parking lot on the south side of the road, with an outhouse. This trail leads to several canyons.
Waypoint 1: Red Pine Lake
Elevation: 9640 AKA: Lower Red Pine Lake
Feature: Lake
Notes: High alpine lakes are great, but this one is extra beautiful. There are good places to camp on the south side of the lake. Incidently, Red Pine refers to Douglas Fir that was harvested from the canyon in the late 1800s. White Pine refers to Engelmann Spruce.
Waypoint 2: Upper Red Pine Lake
Elevation: 10000 Feature: Lake
Notes: There are 2 lakes at Upper Red Lake. You could camp there, but there’s not much cover.
Destination: White Baldy
Elevation: 11321 Feature: Peak
Notes: It towers over White Pine Canyon, Silver Fork and the Wishbone Basin.
Hike Time (roundtrip): 5.5 to 9.0 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 9.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 3661 feet
Main Aspect: All Directions
Climb Rate: 763 feet per mile
Average Grade: 14%
Notes: Take the right fork off the White Pine Trail to hike up to Upper Red Pine Lake. From there climb the boulder field to the ridge, then follow it to the peak.
Trailhead: White Pine TH
Trailhead Elevation: 7660 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 5.3 miles
Area: Little Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 9400 S (SR210) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: Watch for a sign that says White Pine Trailhead about half way up Little Cottonwood Canyon, just after passing Tanners Flat. It is a good size parking lot on the south side of the road, with an outhouse. This trail leads to several canyons.
Waypoint 1: Red Pine Lake
Elevation: 9640 AKA: Lower Red Pine Lake
Feature: Lake
Notes: High alpine lakes are great, but this one is extra beautiful. There are good places to camp on the south side of the lake. Incidently, Red Pine refers to Douglas Fir that was harvested from the canyon in the late 1800s. White Pine refers to Engelmann Spruce.
Waypoint 2: Upper Red Pine Lake
Elevation: 10000 Feature: Lake
Notes: There are 2 lakes at Upper Red Lake. You could camp there, but there’s not much cover.
Destination: White Baldy
Elevation: 11321 Feature: Peak
Notes: It towers over White Pine Canyon, Silver Fork and the Wishbone Basin.
Squaw Peak
Squaw Peak from Rock Canyon TH
Hike Time (roundtrip): 5.0 to 7.5 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 7.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 2770 feet
Main Aspect: All Directions
Climb Rate: 769 feet per mile
Average Grade: 15%
Notes: The climb is a steady grade on a well travelled path. There are a few bridges. It becomes a bit more primitive after taking the junction (go left/north) at the 1.5 mile mark.
Trailhead: Rock Canyon TH
Trailhead Elevation: 5110 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Area: Utah Valley
Area Location: Various locations on east and north ends of the valley
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Notes: There is a large parking lot, restrooms and lots of trails. To get there, drive east past the Provo temple until the road ends.
Destination: Squaw Peak
Elevation: 7880 Feature: Peak
Notes: Squaw Peak is an icon above Provo and the BYU campus. It is also a classic hike or rock climb for those looking for adventure close to home.
Hike Time (roundtrip): 5.0 to 7.5 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 7.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 2770 feet
Main Aspect: All Directions
Climb Rate: 769 feet per mile
Average Grade: 15%
Notes: The climb is a steady grade on a well travelled path. There are a few bridges. It becomes a bit more primitive after taking the junction (go left/north) at the 1.5 mile mark.
Trailhead: Rock Canyon TH
Trailhead Elevation: 5110 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Area: Utah Valley
Area Location: Various locations on east and north ends of the valley
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Notes: There is a large parking lot, restrooms and lots of trails. To get there, drive east past the Provo temple until the road ends.
Destination: Squaw Peak
Elevation: 7880 Feature: Peak
Notes: Squaw Peak is an icon above Provo and the BYU campus. It is also a classic hike or rock climb for those looking for adventure close to home.
Monday, June 27, 2016
Lion Head
Lion Head from Provo Peak TH
Hike Time (roundtrip): 1.0 to 1.5 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 1.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 641 feet
Main Aspect: East
Climb Rate: 916 feet per mile
Average Grade: 17%
Notes: The trail is short, and the climb is not too steep. It might take longer to get to the trailhead than the actual climb itself.
Trailhead: Provo Peak TH
Trailhead Elevation: 8340 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Distance from Provo Canyon: 13.3 miles
Area: Squaw Peak Road
Area Location: 2 miles east of mouth of Provo Canyon. Turn right.
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Notes: There is a dirt parking area on the west side of the road. Follow the trail north, then northeast to go to Provo Peak. Go west to climb Lion Head.
Destination: Lion Head
Elevation: 8981 Feature: Peak
Notes: Lion Head is a highpoint in the valley between Maple Mountain and Provo Peak.
Hike Time (roundtrip): 1.0 to 1.5 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 1.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 641 feet
Main Aspect: East
Climb Rate: 916 feet per mile
Average Grade: 17%
Notes: The trail is short, and the climb is not too steep. It might take longer to get to the trailhead than the actual climb itself.
Trailhead: Provo Peak TH
Trailhead Elevation: 8340 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Distance from Provo Canyon: 13.3 miles
Area: Squaw Peak Road
Area Location: 2 miles east of mouth of Provo Canyon. Turn right.
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Notes: There is a dirt parking area on the west side of the road. Follow the trail north, then northeast to go to Provo Peak. Go west to climb Lion Head.
Destination: Lion Head
Elevation: 8981 Feature: Peak
Notes: Lion Head is a highpoint in the valley between Maple Mountain and Provo Peak.
Thursday, June 23, 2016
Honeycomb Cliffs
Honeycomb Cliffs from Alta TH
Hike Time (roundtrip): 2.5 to 4.5 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 4.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 1809 feet
Main Aspect: Southwest
Climb Rate: 861 feet per mile
Average Grade: 16%
Notes: The trail through Grizzly Gulch passes many artifacts from Alta’s mining days.
Trailhead: Alta TH
Trailhead Elevation: 8670 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 8.1 miles
Area: Little Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 9400 S (SR210) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: The trail starts in Alta where a paved road heading north leaves the main road. It goes past a church and the city offices. Follow the road through 2 switchbacks until you get to a junction. The junction to the north goes toward Cardiff Pass and Flagstaff Peak. The trail east goes through Grizzly Gulch toward Twin Lakes Pass.
Waypoint 1: Grizzly Gulch
Elevation: 9350 Feature: Canyon
Notes: This gulch is east of Alta. It has reminders of the mining heyday in this region. Continue on for hikes to Honeycomb Cliffs, Twin Lakes Pass, Patsey Marley and Mount Wolverine.
Destination: Honeycomb Cliffs
Elevation: 10479 Feature: Peak
Notes: This is an easy climb from the Alta side.
Hike Time (roundtrip): 2.5 to 4.5 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 4.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 1809 feet
Main Aspect: Southwest
Climb Rate: 861 feet per mile
Average Grade: 16%
Notes: The trail through Grizzly Gulch passes many artifacts from Alta’s mining days.
Trailhead: Alta TH
Trailhead Elevation: 8670 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 8.1 miles
Area: Little Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 9400 S (SR210) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: The trail starts in Alta where a paved road heading north leaves the main road. It goes past a church and the city offices. Follow the road through 2 switchbacks until you get to a junction. The junction to the north goes toward Cardiff Pass and Flagstaff Peak. The trail east goes through Grizzly Gulch toward Twin Lakes Pass.
Waypoint 1: Grizzly Gulch
Elevation: 9350 Feature: Canyon
Notes: This gulch is east of Alta. It has reminders of the mining heyday in this region. Continue on for hikes to Honeycomb Cliffs, Twin Lakes Pass, Patsey Marley and Mount Wolverine.
Destination: Honeycomb Cliffs
Elevation: 10479 Feature: Peak
Notes: This is an easy climb from the Alta side.
Grove Creek Springs
Grove Creek Springs from Grove Creek TH
via Grove Creek Canyon
Hike Time (roundtrip): 4.0 to 6.5 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 6.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 2355 feet
Main Aspect: West
Climb Rate: 760 feet per mile
Average Grade: 14%
Notes: The climb through Grove Creek Canyon is awesome. Finding the spring is just icing on the cake.
Trailhead: Grove Creek TH
Trailhead Elevation: 5145 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes
Area: Utah Valley
Area Location: Various locations on east and north ends of the valley
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Notes: Drive east on Grove Creek Drive (500 N) in Pleasant Grove to the end. You will find good trailhead parking.
Waypoint 1: Grove Creek Canyon
Elevation: 7500 Feature: Canyon
Notes: This is a case where the trail IS the destination.
Destination: Grove Creek Springs
Elevation: 7500 Feature: Springs
Notes: After climbing through the steep walled canyon, the spring is in the flat between Mt Timp and Mahagony Mountain.
via Grove Creek Canyon
Hike Time (roundtrip): 4.0 to 6.5 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 6.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 2355 feet
Main Aspect: West
Climb Rate: 760 feet per mile
Average Grade: 14%
Notes: The climb through Grove Creek Canyon is awesome. Finding the spring is just icing on the cake.
Trailhead: Grove Creek TH
Trailhead Elevation: 5145 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes
Area: Utah Valley
Area Location: Various locations on east and north ends of the valley
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Notes: Drive east on Grove Creek Drive (500 N) in Pleasant Grove to the end. You will find good trailhead parking.
Waypoint 1: Grove Creek Canyon
Elevation: 7500 Feature: Canyon
Notes: This is a case where the trail IS the destination.
Destination: Grove Creek Springs
Elevation: 7500 Feature: Springs
Notes: After climbing through the steep walled canyon, the spring is in the flat between Mt Timp and Mahagony Mountain.
Ferguson Overlook
Ferguson Overlook from Ferguson Canyon TH
Hike Time (roundtrip): 2.0 to 3.0 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 2.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 1410 feet
Main Aspect: West
Climb Rate: 1175 feet per mile
Average Grade: 22%
Notes: The trail follows the creekbed in this very steep canyon. The switchback that takes you out of the canyon is a welcome site. The overlok is just past the next switchback.
Trailhead: Ferguson Canyon TH
Trailhead Elevation: 5240 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Area: Salt Lake Valley
Area Location: Various locations on East Bench in Salt Lake
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: Go to about 3800 Timberline Dr in Cottonwood Heights. The trail starts at a dirt road heading northeast. There is good parking
Destination: Ferguson Overlook
Elevation: 6650 Feature: Ridge
Notes: This is a good destination if youre short on time. There are great views of Big Cottonwood Canyon and Salt Lake Valley.
Hike Time (roundtrip): 2.0 to 3.0 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 2.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 1410 feet
Main Aspect: West
Climb Rate: 1175 feet per mile
Average Grade: 22%
Notes: The trail follows the creekbed in this very steep canyon. The switchback that takes you out of the canyon is a welcome site. The overlok is just past the next switchback.
Trailhead: Ferguson Canyon TH
Trailhead Elevation: 5240 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Area: Salt Lake Valley
Area Location: Various locations on East Bench in Salt Lake
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: Go to about 3800 Timberline Dr in Cottonwood Heights. The trail starts at a dirt road heading northeast. There is good parking
Destination: Ferguson Overlook
Elevation: 6650 Feature: Ridge
Notes: This is a good destination if youre short on time. There are great views of Big Cottonwood Canyon and Salt Lake Valley.
Flagstaff Mountain
Flagstaff Mountain from Alta TH
Hike Time (roundtrip): 2.5 to 4.5 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 3.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 1860 feet
Main Aspect: Southeast
Climb Rate: 979 feet per mile
Average Grade: 19%
Notes: The trail follows old mining roads and goes past the imfamous Emma Mine. There’s no trail after the mine, just head up the bowl to the northwest, aiming for the saddle west of Flagstaff. There a trail from the saddle to the peak.
Trailhead: Alta TH
Trailhead Elevation: 8670 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 8.1 miles
Area: Little Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 9400 S (SR210) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: The trail starts in Alta where a paved road heading north leaves the main road. It goes past a church and the city offices. Follow the road through 2 switchbacks until you get to a junction. The junction to the north goes toward Cardiff Pass and Flagstaff Peak. The trail east goes through Grizzly Gulch toward Twin Lakes Pass.
Destination: Flagstaff Mountain
Elevation: 10530 Feature: Peak
Notes: Flagstaff is at the junction of the Cottonwood Ridge and the Reed and Benson Ridge. Overlooking Alta, Mill D South Fork and Days Fork, you can see a lot of country from here. There is a higher peak a short distance to the north, which cannot be seen from Alta.
Hike Time (roundtrip): 2.5 to 4.5 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 3.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 1860 feet
Main Aspect: Southeast
Climb Rate: 979 feet per mile
Average Grade: 19%
Notes: The trail follows old mining roads and goes past the imfamous Emma Mine. There’s no trail after the mine, just head up the bowl to the northwest, aiming for the saddle west of Flagstaff. There a trail from the saddle to the peak.
Trailhead: Alta TH
Trailhead Elevation: 8670 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 8.1 miles
Area: Little Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 9400 S (SR210) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: The trail starts in Alta where a paved road heading north leaves the main road. It goes past a church and the city offices. Follow the road through 2 switchbacks until you get to a junction. The junction to the north goes toward Cardiff Pass and Flagstaff Peak. The trail east goes through Grizzly Gulch toward Twin Lakes Pass.
Destination: Flagstaff Mountain
Elevation: 10530 Feature: Peak
Notes: Flagstaff is at the junction of the Cottonwood Ridge and the Reed and Benson Ridge. Overlooking Alta, Mill D South Fork and Days Fork, you can see a lot of country from here. There is a higher peak a short distance to the north, which cannot be seen from Alta.
Friday, June 17, 2016
Corral Mountain
Corral Mountain from Corral Mountain TH
Hike Time (roundtrip): 3.5 to 5.0 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 4.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 2085 feet
Main Aspect: West
Climb Rate: 869 feet per mile
Average Grade: 16%
Notes: The trail climbs over 2000 ft from Squaw Peak road, as the switchbacks go through terracing on the way to the peak. The terracing was built to stop erosion cause by overgrazing the mountain sides.
Trailhead: Corral Mountain TH
Trailhead Elevation: 8350 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Distance from Provo Canyon: 14.9 miles
Area: Squaw Peak Road
Area Location: 2 miles east of mouth of Provo Canyon. Turn right.
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Notes: There is not much of a parking area here. Look for an old road that takes off on the east side. That’s the trail
Destination: Corral Mountain
Elevation: 10435 Feature: Peak
Notes: Corral Mountain is the next peak south of Provo Peak, with great views in all directions
Hike Time (roundtrip): 3.5 to 5.0 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 4.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 2085 feet
Main Aspect: West
Climb Rate: 869 feet per mile
Average Grade: 16%
Notes: The trail climbs over 2000 ft from Squaw Peak road, as the switchbacks go through terracing on the way to the peak. The terracing was built to stop erosion cause by overgrazing the mountain sides.
Trailhead: Corral Mountain TH
Trailhead Elevation: 8350 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Distance from Provo Canyon: 14.9 miles
Area: Squaw Peak Road
Area Location: 2 miles east of mouth of Provo Canyon. Turn right.
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Notes: There is not much of a parking area here. Look for an old road that takes off on the east side. That’s the trail
Destination: Corral Mountain
Elevation: 10435 Feature: Peak
Notes: Corral Mountain is the next peak south of Provo Peak, with great views in all directions
Cottonwood Ridge Traverse
Destination: Cottonwood Ridge Traverse
Elevation: 11330
Notes: The Cottonwood Ridge Traverse takes you over Mt Superior, Monte Cristo, Peak 11033, Dromedary, Sunrise and Broads Fork Twin Peaks. Be ready for much scrambling and mush exposure. The difference between this route and the Triple Traverse is the addition of the first 3 peaks.
Cottonwood Ridge Traverse from Mill B South Fork TH
Hike Time: 12.0 to 20.5 hours
Distance: 13.0 miles
Elevation Gain: 7695 feet
Main Aspect: All Directions
Climb Rate: 592 feet per mile
Average Grade: 11%
Notes: This traverse takes you up on the ridgeline between Little and Big Cottonwood Canyons. An alternate starting point is from the Alta trailhead in Little Cottonwood Canyon. Head west from Cardiff Pass.
Trailhead: Mill B South Fork TH
Trailhead Elevation: 6220 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 4.3 miles
Area: Big Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 7200 S (SR190) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: The parking lot is east of the first turn in the Mill B S turn. The Lake Blanche trail heads out on an old road to the east. The Broads Fork TH is almost hidden at the west end of the parking lot.
Waypoint 1: Lake Blanche
Elevation: 8920 Feature: Lake
Notes: If you make it to this lake, you should go to the 2 sister lakes, all within a half mile. The view of Sundial Peak from here is one that is photographed often. I had all 3 lakes to myself for about an hour when I went there, it was hard to leave. Painter/author Alfred Lambourne lived in the Lake Blanche area for 5 months in the 1880s.
Waypoint 2: Mount Superior & Monte Cristo
Elevation: 11132 Feature: Peak
Notes: These 2 peaks are so close together that I debated whether or not I should give each their own pages. Most trip reports and trail descriptions include both, so I decided to combine them. The peaks require mountaineering skills.
Waypoint 3: Dromedary Peak
Elevation: 11107 Feature: Peak
Notes: The peak is at the top of the ridge seperating Broads Fork and Mill B North Fork canyons, as well as the Cottonwood Ridge which seperates Little and Big Cottonwood Canyons. The peak is part of the Triple Traverse and the Cottonwood Traverse.
Waypoint 4: Sunrise Peak
Elevation: 11275 AKA: O’Sullivan Peak
Feature: Peak
Notes: It is between Broads Fork Twin Peaks and Dromedary Peak on the Cottonwood Ridge. It requires some mountaineering skills.
Waypoint 5: Twin Peaks (Broads Fork)
Elevation: 11330 Feature: Peak
Notes: An impressive peak, whether you are looking at it from Salt Lake Valley or Broads Fork.
Elevation: 11330
Notes: The Cottonwood Ridge Traverse takes you over Mt Superior, Monte Cristo, Peak 11033, Dromedary, Sunrise and Broads Fork Twin Peaks. Be ready for much scrambling and mush exposure. The difference between this route and the Triple Traverse is the addition of the first 3 peaks.
Cottonwood Ridge Traverse from Mill B South Fork TH
Hike Time: 12.0 to 20.5 hours
Distance: 13.0 miles
Elevation Gain: 7695 feet
Main Aspect: All Directions
Climb Rate: 592 feet per mile
Average Grade: 11%
Notes: This traverse takes you up on the ridgeline between Little and Big Cottonwood Canyons. An alternate starting point is from the Alta trailhead in Little Cottonwood Canyon. Head west from Cardiff Pass.
Trailhead: Mill B South Fork TH
Trailhead Elevation: 6220 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 4.3 miles
Area: Big Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 7200 S (SR190) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: The parking lot is east of the first turn in the Mill B S turn. The Lake Blanche trail heads out on an old road to the east. The Broads Fork TH is almost hidden at the west end of the parking lot.
Waypoint 1: Lake Blanche
Elevation: 8920 Feature: Lake
Notes: If you make it to this lake, you should go to the 2 sister lakes, all within a half mile. The view of Sundial Peak from here is one that is photographed often. I had all 3 lakes to myself for about an hour when I went there, it was hard to leave. Painter/author Alfred Lambourne lived in the Lake Blanche area for 5 months in the 1880s.
Waypoint 2: Mount Superior & Monte Cristo
Elevation: 11132 Feature: Peak
Notes: These 2 peaks are so close together that I debated whether or not I should give each their own pages. Most trip reports and trail descriptions include both, so I decided to combine them. The peaks require mountaineering skills.
Waypoint 3: Dromedary Peak
Elevation: 11107 Feature: Peak
Notes: The peak is at the top of the ridge seperating Broads Fork and Mill B North Fork canyons, as well as the Cottonwood Ridge which seperates Little and Big Cottonwood Canyons. The peak is part of the Triple Traverse and the Cottonwood Traverse.
Waypoint 4: Sunrise Peak
Elevation: 11275 AKA: O’Sullivan Peak
Feature: Peak
Notes: It is between Broads Fork Twin Peaks and Dromedary Peak on the Cottonwood Ridge. It requires some mountaineering skills.
Waypoint 5: Twin Peaks (Broads Fork)
Elevation: 11330 Feature: Peak
Notes: An impressive peak, whether you are looking at it from Salt Lake Valley or Broads Fork.
Triple Traverse
Destination: Triple Traverse
Elevation: 11330 Feature: Trail-Distance
Notes: The Triple Traverse is a loop of 3 peaks at the west end of the Cottonwood Ridge, Broads Fork Twin Peaks, Sunrise Peak and Dromedary Peak.
Triple Traverse from Broads Fork TH
Hike Time: 11.5 to 17.5 hours
Distance: 9.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 6376 feet
Main Aspect: North
Climb Rate: 664 feet per mile
Average Grade: 13%
Notes: The standard route for this is through Brads Fork, but there are several variations, including via Tanners Gulch for a few weeks in the spring when avalanche danger is gone, but before the snow melts.
Trailhead: Broads Fork TH
Trailhead Elevation: 6220 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 4.3 miles
Area: Big Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 7200 S (SR190) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: The parking lot is east of the first turn in the Mill B S turn. The Lake Blanche trail heads out on an old road to the east. The Broads Fork TH is almost hidden at the west end of the parking lot.
Waypoint 1: Broads Fork
Elevation: 8240 Feature: Canyon
Notes: The Broad Fork trail ends in an alpine meadow, with steep slopes on 3 sides. This area gets ferocious avalanches in winter. The basin is a good place to camp if you want to hit the higher peaks refreshed.
Waypoint 2: Twin Peaks (Broads Fork)
Elevation: 11330 Feature: Peak
Notes: An impressive peak, whether you are looking at it from Salt Lake Valley or Broads Fork.
Waypoint 3: Sunrise Peak
Elevation: 11275 AKA: O’Sullivan Peak
Feature: Peak
Notes: It is between Broads Fork Twin Peaks and Dromedary Peak on the Cottonwood Ridge. It requires some mountaineering skills.
Waypoint 4: Dromedary Peak
Elevation: 11107 Feature: Peak
Notes: The peak is at the top of the ridge seperating Broads Fork and Mill B North Fork canyons, as well as the Cottonwood Ridge which seperates Little and Big Cottonwood Canyons. The peak is part of the Triple Traverse and the Cottonwood Traverse.
Elevation: 11330 Feature: Trail-Distance
Notes: The Triple Traverse is a loop of 3 peaks at the west end of the Cottonwood Ridge, Broads Fork Twin Peaks, Sunrise Peak and Dromedary Peak.
Triple Traverse from Broads Fork TH
Hike Time: 11.5 to 17.5 hours
Distance: 9.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 6376 feet
Main Aspect: North
Climb Rate: 664 feet per mile
Average Grade: 13%
Notes: The standard route for this is through Brads Fork, but there are several variations, including via Tanners Gulch for a few weeks in the spring when avalanche danger is gone, but before the snow melts.
Trailhead: Broads Fork TH
Trailhead Elevation: 6220 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 4.3 miles
Area: Big Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 7200 S (SR190) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: The parking lot is east of the first turn in the Mill B S turn. The Lake Blanche trail heads out on an old road to the east. The Broads Fork TH is almost hidden at the west end of the parking lot.
Waypoint 1: Broads Fork
Elevation: 8240 Feature: Canyon
Notes: The Broad Fork trail ends in an alpine meadow, with steep slopes on 3 sides. This area gets ferocious avalanches in winter. The basin is a good place to camp if you want to hit the higher peaks refreshed.
Waypoint 2: Twin Peaks (Broads Fork)
Elevation: 11330 Feature: Peak
Notes: An impressive peak, whether you are looking at it from Salt Lake Valley or Broads Fork.
Waypoint 3: Sunrise Peak
Elevation: 11275 AKA: O’Sullivan Peak
Feature: Peak
Notes: It is between Broads Fork Twin Peaks and Dromedary Peak on the Cottonwood Ridge. It requires some mountaineering skills.
Waypoint 4: Dromedary Peak
Elevation: 11107 Feature: Peak
Notes: The peak is at the top of the ridge seperating Broads Fork and Mill B North Fork canyons, as well as the Cottonwood Ridge which seperates Little and Big Cottonwood Canyons. The peak is part of the Triple Traverse and the Cottonwood Traverse.
Thursday, June 16, 2016
Brighton Ridge Run
Brighton Ridge Run from Brighton Lakes TH
Hike Time: 6.5 to 11.0 hours
Distance: 7.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 3640 feet
Main Aspect: All Directions
Climb Rate: 1011 feet per mile
Average Grade: 19%
Notes: Six peaks, 5 lakes, 3 counties, 3 canyons, and you end where you start, so there is no need for a car shuttle. It all makes for a pretty good day. (It is quite steep!)
Trailhead: Brighton Lakes TH
Trailhead Elevation: 8760 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 14.7 miles
Area: Big Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 7200 S (SR190) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: Park near the Brighton Center. The trail starts on the right side of the main building and heads southeast along the edge of a ski run.
Waypoint 1: Snake Creek Pass
Elevation: 10080 Feature: Saddle
Notes: The pass is near the top of the Brighton Ski Resort runs. From here, you can continue on to Clayton Peak, Preston Peak or Pioneer Peak.
Waypoint 2: Pioneer Peak
Elevation: 10440 Feature: Peak
Notes: Lots of people get to Pioneer Peaks neighbor, Sunset Peak. Very few venture over to this peak. It sits above Lake Catherine and Dog Lake.
Waypoint 3: Sunset Peak
Elevation: 10648 Feature: Peak
Notes: This is one of the easiest peak hikes in the Wasatch. It takes about an hour from the Alta side and about an hour and a half from Brighton. You can see Big Cottonwood, Little Cottonwood and Snake Creek drainages from here. This is a good family hike for families with older children.
Waypoint 4: Mount Tuscarora
Elevation: 10611 Feature: Peak
Notes: Mt Tuscarora is the peak west of Lake Catherine, and a short distance from Mt Wolverine. It’s often a waypoint on the hike to Mt Wolverine to the west.
Waypoint 5: Mount Wolverine
Elevation: 10795 Feature: Peak
Notes: Mt Wolverine is at the head of Wolverine Cirque, which drains into Twin Lakes. It is the tallest of the peaks surrounding the Brighton area. There are great views of both Little and Big Cottonwood Canyons.
Waypoint 6: Mount Millicent
Elevation: 10452 Feature: Peak
Notes: Mt Milli is the peak overlooking Brighton Ski Resort to the west. Mt Wolverine is close by as well as Wolverine Cirque.
Destination: Brighton Ridge Run
Elevation: 10750 Feature: Trail-Distance
Notes: This route takes you over the peaks surrounding the Brighton Lakes. There are lots of exit points with beautiful return routes.
Hike Time: 6.5 to 11.0 hours
Distance: 7.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 3640 feet
Main Aspect: All Directions
Climb Rate: 1011 feet per mile
Average Grade: 19%
Notes: Six peaks, 5 lakes, 3 counties, 3 canyons, and you end where you start, so there is no need for a car shuttle. It all makes for a pretty good day. (It is quite steep!)
Trailhead: Brighton Lakes TH
Trailhead Elevation: 8760 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 14.7 miles
Area: Big Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 7200 S (SR190) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: Park near the Brighton Center. The trail starts on the right side of the main building and heads southeast along the edge of a ski run.
Waypoint 1: Snake Creek Pass
Elevation: 10080 Feature: Saddle
Notes: The pass is near the top of the Brighton Ski Resort runs. From here, you can continue on to Clayton Peak, Preston Peak or Pioneer Peak.
Waypoint 2: Pioneer Peak
Elevation: 10440 Feature: Peak
Notes: Lots of people get to Pioneer Peaks neighbor, Sunset Peak. Very few venture over to this peak. It sits above Lake Catherine and Dog Lake.
Waypoint 3: Sunset Peak
Elevation: 10648 Feature: Peak
Notes: This is one of the easiest peak hikes in the Wasatch. It takes about an hour from the Alta side and about an hour and a half from Brighton. You can see Big Cottonwood, Little Cottonwood and Snake Creek drainages from here. This is a good family hike for families with older children.
Waypoint 4: Mount Tuscarora
Elevation: 10611 Feature: Peak
Notes: Mt Tuscarora is the peak west of Lake Catherine, and a short distance from Mt Wolverine. It’s often a waypoint on the hike to Mt Wolverine to the west.
Waypoint 5: Mount Wolverine
Elevation: 10795 Feature: Peak
Notes: Mt Wolverine is at the head of Wolverine Cirque, which drains into Twin Lakes. It is the tallest of the peaks surrounding the Brighton area. There are great views of both Little and Big Cottonwood Canyons.
Waypoint 6: Mount Millicent
Elevation: 10452 Feature: Peak
Notes: Mt Milli is the peak overlooking Brighton Ski Resort to the west. Mt Wolverine is close by as well as Wolverine Cirque.
Destination: Brighton Ridge Run
Elevation: 10750 Feature: Trail-Distance
Notes: This route takes you over the peaks surrounding the Brighton Lakes. There are lots of exit points with beautiful return routes.
Broads Fork
Broads Fork from Broads Fork TH
Hike Time (roundtrip): 4.0 to 6.0 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 6.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 2020 feet
Main Aspect: North
Climb Rate: 612 feet per mile
Average Grade: 12%
Notes: A nice, strenuous hike into beautiful alpine terrain. It makes for a good day hike if you are looking for a good workout. What is unique about this trail is there are several flat areas between steep sections, to give your legs a break.
Trailhead:Broads Fork TH
Trailhead Elevation: 6220 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 4.3 miles
Area: Big Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 7200 S (SR190) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: The parking lot is east of the first turn in the Mill B S turn. The Lake Blanche trail heads out on an old road to the east. The Broads Fork TH is almost hidden at the west end of the parking lot.
Destination: Broads Fork
Elevation: 8240 Feature: Canyon
Notes: The Broad Fork trail ends in an alpine meadow, with steep slopes on 3 sides. This area gets ferocious avalanches in winter. The basin is a good place to camp if you want to hit the higher peaks refreshed.
Hike Time (roundtrip): 4.0 to 6.0 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 6.6 miles
Elevation Gain: 2020 feet
Main Aspect: North
Climb Rate: 612 feet per mile
Average Grade: 12%
Notes: A nice, strenuous hike into beautiful alpine terrain. It makes for a good day hike if you are looking for a good workout. What is unique about this trail is there are several flat areas between steep sections, to give your legs a break.
Trailhead:Broads Fork TH
Trailhead Elevation: 6220 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 4.3 miles
Area: Big Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 7200 S (SR190) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: The parking lot is east of the first turn in the Mill B S turn. The Lake Blanche trail heads out on an old road to the east. The Broads Fork TH is almost hidden at the west end of the parking lot.
Destination: Broads Fork
Elevation: 8240 Feature: Canyon
Notes: The Broad Fork trail ends in an alpine meadow, with steep slopes on 3 sides. This area gets ferocious avalanches in winter. The basin is a good place to camp if you want to hit the higher peaks refreshed.
Tuesday, June 14, 2016
Big Baldy
Destination: Big Baldy
Elevation: 8737 Feature: Peak
Notes: From the peak, you can see all of Utah Valley. Turn around and the massive Mount Timpanogos fills your view.
There are two trailheads to Big Baldy:
Big Baldy from Battle Creek TH
Hike Time (roundtrip): 5.0 to 8.5 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 9.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 3502 feet
Main Aspect: Northwest
Climb Rate: 761 feet per mile
Average Grade: 14%
Notes: The hike to Big Baldy via Battlecreek was the easiest 3500 feet I have done, maybe because it tops out at 8700ft, and most other peaks in the area are in thin air.
Trailhead: Battle Creek TH
Trailhead Elevation: 5235 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes Area: Utah Valley
Area Location: Various locations on east and north ends of the valley
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Notes: Drive east on 200 S in Pleasant Grove to Battle Creek Park. It is the location of an early skirmish between the pioneers and the Indians living in the area. Pleasant Grove was originally named Battle Creek.
Waypoint 1: Battle Creek Falls
Elevation: 5671 Feature: Falls
Notes: A great destination for families. The 50 foot falls is refreshing year round.
Waypoint 2: Battle Creek Canyon
Elevation: 7200 Feature: Canyon
Notes: The destination is the trail itself. The trail will take you into Sagebrush Flat where you can go many different directions, or return the way you came.
Big Baldy from Dry Canyon TH
Hike Time (roundtrip): 4.5 to 7.5 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 7 miles
Elevation Gain: 3297 feet
Main Aspect: Southwest
Climb Rate: 942 feet per mile
Average Grade: 18%
Notes: This hike is relatively easy. Sure, it is 3500 feet, but it is all on good, well established trails. Great views of Utah Valley and of the west face of Mount Timpanogos. Everest Ridge starts at the saddle.
Trailhead: Dry Canyon TH
Trailhead Elevation: 5440 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No Area: Utah Valley
Area Location: Various locations on east and north ends of the valley
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Notes: Drive east on 200 S in Lindon (street north of Allens) to where it curves right. Turn left here and follow it to the end. This TH is great. You are in the wilderness almost as soon as you hit the trail.
Elevation: 8737 Feature: Peak
Notes: From the peak, you can see all of Utah Valley. Turn around and the massive Mount Timpanogos fills your view.
There are two trailheads to Big Baldy:
Big Baldy from Battle Creek TH
Hike Time (roundtrip): 5.0 to 8.5 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 9.2 miles
Elevation Gain: 3502 feet
Main Aspect: Northwest
Climb Rate: 761 feet per mile
Average Grade: 14%
Notes: The hike to Big Baldy via Battlecreek was the easiest 3500 feet I have done, maybe because it tops out at 8700ft, and most other peaks in the area are in thin air.
Trailhead: Battle Creek TH
Trailhead Elevation: 5235 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes Area: Utah Valley
Area Location: Various locations on east and north ends of the valley
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Notes: Drive east on 200 S in Pleasant Grove to Battle Creek Park. It is the location of an early skirmish between the pioneers and the Indians living in the area. Pleasant Grove was originally named Battle Creek.
Waypoint 1: Battle Creek Falls
Elevation: 5671 Feature: Falls
Notes: A great destination for families. The 50 foot falls is refreshing year round.
Waypoint 2: Battle Creek Canyon
Elevation: 7200 Feature: Canyon
Notes: The destination is the trail itself. The trail will take you into Sagebrush Flat where you can go many different directions, or return the way you came.
Big Baldy from Dry Canyon TH
Hike Time (roundtrip): 4.5 to 7.5 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 7 miles
Elevation Gain: 3297 feet
Main Aspect: Southwest
Climb Rate: 942 feet per mile
Average Grade: 18%
Notes: This hike is relatively easy. Sure, it is 3500 feet, but it is all on good, well established trails. Great views of Utah Valley and of the west face of Mount Timpanogos. Everest Ridge starts at the saddle.
Trailhead: Dry Canyon TH
Trailhead Elevation: 5440 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No Area: Utah Valley
Area Location: Various locations on east and north ends of the valley
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Notes: Drive east on 200 S in Lindon (street north of Allens) to where it curves right. Turn left here and follow it to the end. This TH is great. You are in the wilderness almost as soon as you hit the trail.
Gobblers Knob
Destination: Gobblers Knob
Elevation: 10246 Feature: Peak
Notes: Gobblers Knob is the highest of the range separating Mill Creek and Big Cottonwood Canyon. There are beautiful views in all directions. (You could also visit Mount Raymond while you are there.)
There are 4 different trails to Gobblers knob, 2 start in Mill Canyon, 2 start in Big Cottonwood:
Gobblers Knob from Alexander Basin TH (this is the shortest, but most steep!)
Hike Time (roundtrip): 3.5 to 6.0 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 4.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 3096 feet
Main Aspect: Northeast
Climb Rate: 1407 feet per mile
Average Grade: 27%
Notes: The trail is steep most of the way. You can do a loop around Gobblers Knob and return to the same trailhead.
Trailhead: Alexander Basin TH
Trailhead Elevation: 7150 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Distance from Fee Station: 7.0 miles
Area: Mill Creek Canyon
Area Location: East on 3800 S in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: $3
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Notes: The parking is on the north, 1 1/2 miles past Elbow Fork. There are no facilities there, just the trailhead and space for several cars.
Waypoint 1: Alexander Basin
Elevation: 9000 Feature: Basin
Notes: The basin is a good destination if you are short on time. If you made it this far, you might as well go to the Gobblers Knob summit.
Gobblers Knob from Terraces TH
Hike Time (roundtrip): 6.5 to 10.0 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 9 miles
Elevation Gain: 4096 feet
Main Aspect: North
Climb Rate: 910 feet per mile
Average Grade: 17%
Notes: This trail ascent is mild and gradual. It is under cover of old growth trees with an open understory, so it probably stays relatively cool. After climbing out of Bowman Fork and up to the ridgeline, the views open up in nearly all directions. Closeups of Gobblers Knob, Mt Raymond and Thaynes Peak make it hard to keep your eyes on the trail.
Trailhead: Terraces TH
Trailhead Elevation: 6150 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes
Distance from Fee Station: 3.8 miles
Area: Mill Creek Canyon
Area Location: East on 3800 S in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: $3
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Notes: Take the road leading to the Terraces camp area. The trailhead is at the south end of the road on the east side. The trail splits after a few hundred feet. Left goes to Elbow Fork, right goes to Bowman Fork.
Waypoint 1:White Fir Pass
Elevation: 7580 Feature: Saddle
Notes: It is an overlook on the Bowman Fork trail and it makes its way toward Baker Pass. The pass is between Bowman Fork and Yellow Jacket Fork. Good views of Mill Creek Canyon.
Waypoint 2: Baker Pass
Elevation: 9340 Feature: Saddle
Notes: Bakers Pass is the saddle between Gobblers Knob and Mount Raymond. From here, you can go to one or both peaks. Gobblers Knob is an easy walk-up peak, Mt Raymond is a bit more challenging, but has awesome views.
Gobblers Knob from Mill B North Fork TH
Hike Time (roundtrip): 6.0 to 10.0 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 10.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 4036 feet
Main Aspect: All Directions
Climb Rate: 747 feet per mile
Average Grade: 14%
Notes: This is one of the longer trails to Gobblers Knob. It passes under Mt Raymond before the climb to Bakers Pass. The view across the canyon to the Cottonwood Ridge are great.
Trailhead: Mill B North Fork TH
Trailhead Elevation: 6210 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 4.3 miles
Area: Big Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 7200 S (SR190) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: There is a parking lot in a wide area of the sharp S turn at Mill B. It does not fit many cars, so you might need to park in the Mill B South Fork parking area a few hundred feet to the south.
Waypoint 1: Hidden Falls
Elevation: 6360 Feature: Falls
Notes: Cross the road to the northeast of the parking area. Look upstream several hundred feet to get a glimpse of the falls. When you get to the falls, you’ll also see an old mine on the right.
Waypoint 2: Big Cottonwood Overlook
Elevation: 7100 Feature: Ridge
Notes: The views are worth the effort to get here. See Big Cottonwood below, Kessler Peak to the east, Mill B South Fork Canyon to the south and Salt Lake Valley to the west.
Waypoint 3:Baker Pass
Elevation: 9340 Feature: Saddle
Notes: Bakers Pass is the saddle between Gobblers Knob and Mount Raymond. From here, you can go to one or both peaks. Gobblers Knob is an easy walk-up peak, Mt Raymond is a bit more challenging, but has awesome views.
Gobblers Knob from Butler Fork TH
Hike Time (roundtrip): 4.5 to 7.0 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 7.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 3066 feet
Main Aspect: Southeast
Climb Rate: 829 feet per mile
Average Grade: 16%
Notes: The trail from the trailhead to Circle All Peak is relatively steep. From there you climb slowly as you go through Mill A Basin to Baker Pass. There are several false summits on the way to the peak, but nothing too bad.
Trailhead: Butler Fork TH
Trailhead Elevation: 7180 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 8.2 miles
Area: Big Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 7200 S (SR190) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: There is enough parking space for around 10 cars. There are no other facilities there.
Waypoint 1: Circle All Peak
Elevation: 8707 Feature: Peak
Notes: It is not really a peak, Circle All Peak is really just a highpoint on a ridgeline leading up to Gobblers Knob. You can see quite a bit of Big Cottonwood Canyon from there though.
Waypoint 2:Baker Pass
Elevation: 9340 Feature: Saddle
Notes: Bakers Pass is the saddle between Gobblers Knob and Mount Raymond. From here, you can go to one or both peaks. Gobblers Knob is an easy walk-up peak, Mt Raymond is a bit more challenging, but has awesome views.
Elevation: 10246 Feature: Peak
Notes: Gobblers Knob is the highest of the range separating Mill Creek and Big Cottonwood Canyon. There are beautiful views in all directions. (You could also visit Mount Raymond while you are there.)
There are 4 different trails to Gobblers knob, 2 start in Mill Canyon, 2 start in Big Cottonwood:
Gobblers Knob from Alexander Basin TH (this is the shortest, but most steep!)
Hike Time (roundtrip): 3.5 to 6.0 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 4.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 3096 feet
Main Aspect: Northeast
Climb Rate: 1407 feet per mile
Average Grade: 27%
Notes: The trail is steep most of the way. You can do a loop around Gobblers Knob and return to the same trailhead.
Trailhead: Alexander Basin TH
Trailhead Elevation: 7150 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Distance from Fee Station: 7.0 miles
Area: Mill Creek Canyon
Area Location: East on 3800 S in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: $3
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Notes: The parking is on the north, 1 1/2 miles past Elbow Fork. There are no facilities there, just the trailhead and space for several cars.
Waypoint 1: Alexander Basin
Elevation: 9000 Feature: Basin
Notes: The basin is a good destination if you are short on time. If you made it this far, you might as well go to the Gobblers Knob summit.
Gobblers Knob from Terraces TH
Hike Time (roundtrip): 6.5 to 10.0 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 9 miles
Elevation Gain: 4096 feet
Main Aspect: North
Climb Rate: 910 feet per mile
Average Grade: 17%
Notes: This trail ascent is mild and gradual. It is under cover of old growth trees with an open understory, so it probably stays relatively cool. After climbing out of Bowman Fork and up to the ridgeline, the views open up in nearly all directions. Closeups of Gobblers Knob, Mt Raymond and Thaynes Peak make it hard to keep your eyes on the trail.
Trailhead: Terraces TH
Trailhead Elevation: 6150 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes
Distance from Fee Station: 3.8 miles
Area: Mill Creek Canyon
Area Location: East on 3800 S in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: $3
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Notes: Take the road leading to the Terraces camp area. The trailhead is at the south end of the road on the east side. The trail splits after a few hundred feet. Left goes to Elbow Fork, right goes to Bowman Fork.
Waypoint 1:White Fir Pass
Elevation: 7580 Feature: Saddle
Notes: It is an overlook on the Bowman Fork trail and it makes its way toward Baker Pass. The pass is between Bowman Fork and Yellow Jacket Fork. Good views of Mill Creek Canyon.
Waypoint 2: Baker Pass
Elevation: 9340 Feature: Saddle
Notes: Bakers Pass is the saddle between Gobblers Knob and Mount Raymond. From here, you can go to one or both peaks. Gobblers Knob is an easy walk-up peak, Mt Raymond is a bit more challenging, but has awesome views.
Gobblers Knob from Mill B North Fork TH
Hike Time (roundtrip): 6.0 to 10.0 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 10.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 4036 feet
Main Aspect: All Directions
Climb Rate: 747 feet per mile
Average Grade: 14%
Notes: This is one of the longer trails to Gobblers Knob. It passes under Mt Raymond before the climb to Bakers Pass. The view across the canyon to the Cottonwood Ridge are great.
Trailhead: Mill B North Fork TH
Trailhead Elevation: 6210 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 4.3 miles
Area: Big Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 7200 S (SR190) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: There is a parking lot in a wide area of the sharp S turn at Mill B. It does not fit many cars, so you might need to park in the Mill B South Fork parking area a few hundred feet to the south.
Waypoint 1: Hidden Falls
Elevation: 6360 Feature: Falls
Notes: Cross the road to the northeast of the parking area. Look upstream several hundred feet to get a glimpse of the falls. When you get to the falls, you’ll also see an old mine on the right.
Waypoint 2: Big Cottonwood Overlook
Elevation: 7100 Feature: Ridge
Notes: The views are worth the effort to get here. See Big Cottonwood below, Kessler Peak to the east, Mill B South Fork Canyon to the south and Salt Lake Valley to the west.
Waypoint 3:Baker Pass
Elevation: 9340 Feature: Saddle
Notes: Bakers Pass is the saddle between Gobblers Knob and Mount Raymond. From here, you can go to one or both peaks. Gobblers Knob is an easy walk-up peak, Mt Raymond is a bit more challenging, but has awesome views.
Gobblers Knob from Butler Fork TH
Hike Time (roundtrip): 4.5 to 7.0 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 7.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 3066 feet
Main Aspect: Southeast
Climb Rate: 829 feet per mile
Average Grade: 16%
Notes: The trail from the trailhead to Circle All Peak is relatively steep. From there you climb slowly as you go through Mill A Basin to Baker Pass. There are several false summits on the way to the peak, but nothing too bad.
Trailhead: Butler Fork TH
Trailhead Elevation: 7180 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: No
Distance from Park-N-Ride: 8.2 miles
Area: Big Cottonwood Canyon
Area Location: East on 7200 S (SR190) in Salt Lake County
Area Fee: None
Dogs Allowed: No
Notes: There is enough parking space for around 10 cars. There are no other facilities there.
Waypoint 1: Circle All Peak
Elevation: 8707 Feature: Peak
Notes: It is not really a peak, Circle All Peak is really just a highpoint on a ridgeline leading up to Gobblers Knob. You can see quite a bit of Big Cottonwood Canyon from there though.
Waypoint 2:Baker Pass
Elevation: 9340 Feature: Saddle
Notes: Bakers Pass is the saddle between Gobblers Knob and Mount Raymond. From here, you can go to one or both peaks. Gobblers Knob is an easy walk-up peak, Mt Raymond is a bit more challenging, but has awesome views.
Saturday, June 11, 2016
Navajo Trail
Navajo Trail #32054 (this is a different hike than the Navajo Lake Loop)
2 miles steep
Trail is fairly steep and follows a small drainage part way up and the switch back up on to the top of the ridge. The end of the trail overlooks the north fork of the Virgin River with a view of Zion National Park. The trail is primarily through an old growth Engelmann spruce and Douglas fir stand.
Directions:
From Cedar City, travel east 26 miles and turn right on the Navajo Lake Road (053). Follow road #053 approximately 3-1/4 miles to the Navajo Lake Campground. Go into south side parking lot which is located by the restrooms. Trail leaves east end of parking area.
2 miles steep
Trail is fairly steep and follows a small drainage part way up and the switch back up on to the top of the ridge. The end of the trail overlooks the north fork of the Virgin River with a view of Zion National Park. The trail is primarily through an old growth Engelmann spruce and Douglas fir stand.
Directions:
From Cedar City, travel east 26 miles and turn right on the Navajo Lake Road (053). Follow road #053 approximately 3-1/4 miles to the Navajo Lake Campground. Go into south side parking lot which is located by the restrooms. Trail leaves east end of parking area.
Mount Naomi
6.5 miles
moderate
average grade 11%
highest grade 34%
1850' elevation gain
Features: Birding, Fall Colors, Lake, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife
Restrictions
The gate for the road that goes up to Tony Grove Lake usually closes with the first snows of the winter, and this trail would be very difficult to travel during the winter anyways because the snows get very deep up here.
Overview
This rocky trail goes through some of the most beautiful terrain in the Bear River Range. From the trail, you can get views of Mount Gog and Mount Magog, two majestic peaks, and from the top of Mount Naomi the trail offers great views of Cherry Peak to the northwest, a large portion of Cache Valley to the west, and a large portion of the Bear River Range to the south. The trail can be challenging at times but it's short and well worth the work to get the views from the top.
Description
From Tony Grove Lake, the trail heads out in the direction of Mount Magog, and towards an increasingly barren set of karst and glacially influenced terrain. The trail can be rocky and somewhat steep in places, but it is a gorgeous trail with lots of beautiful views to offer.
The trail never really enters any significant forests, but there are wildflowers in season and fields of sagebrush and grasses along the trail. The trail ascends through this terrain until just under Mount Naomi, then skirts around underneath it and then comes around to it from the north side.
The last push to the top involves some scrambling, but it is fairly mellow, and easy for anyone to do. From the top, you get amazing views of Smithfield Canyon and Cache Valley, as well as Cherry Peak, Mount Gog, and many of the other peaks in the Bear River Range. You also get the satisfaction of being at the tallest point for almost 100 miles in any direction.
moderate
average grade 11%
highest grade 34%
1850' elevation gain
Features: Birding, Fall Colors, Lake, Views, Wildflowers, Wildlife
Restrictions
The gate for the road that goes up to Tony Grove Lake usually closes with the first snows of the winter, and this trail would be very difficult to travel during the winter anyways because the snows get very deep up here.
Overview
This rocky trail goes through some of the most beautiful terrain in the Bear River Range. From the trail, you can get views of Mount Gog and Mount Magog, two majestic peaks, and from the top of Mount Naomi the trail offers great views of Cherry Peak to the northwest, a large portion of Cache Valley to the west, and a large portion of the Bear River Range to the south. The trail can be challenging at times but it's short and well worth the work to get the views from the top.
Description
From Tony Grove Lake, the trail heads out in the direction of Mount Magog, and towards an increasingly barren set of karst and glacially influenced terrain. The trail can be rocky and somewhat steep in places, but it is a gorgeous trail with lots of beautiful views to offer.
The trail never really enters any significant forests, but there are wildflowers in season and fields of sagebrush and grasses along the trail. The trail ascends through this terrain until just under Mount Naomi, then skirts around underneath it and then comes around to it from the north side.
The last push to the top involves some scrambling, but it is fairly mellow, and easy for anyone to do. From the top, you get amazing views of Smithfield Canyon and Cache Valley, as well as Cherry Peak, Mount Gog, and many of the other peaks in the Bear River Range. You also get the satisfaction of being at the tallest point for almost 100 miles in any direction.
Friday, June 10, 2016
Box Elder Peak
Box Elder Peak from Granite Flat North TH
via Community Flat
Hike Time (roundtrip): 7.5 to 11.5 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 10.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 4331 feet
Main Aspect: All Directions
Climb Rate: 833 feet per mile
Average Grade: 16%
Notes: The trail is the best part of the hike. You get to see lots of diversity in terrain and plant life. At the saddle (Community Flat), turn left (south) and head up the ridge. The trail occasionally wanders off the ridgeline, but I learned it is easily to stick as close as you can to the ridgeline.
Trailhead
Granite Flat North TH
Trailhead Elevation: 6770 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes
Distance from Fee Station: 8.1 miles
Area: American Fork Canyon
Area Location: East on Timpanogos Hwy (SR92), exit 284 in Utah County
Area Fee: $6
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Notes: The Granite Flats North trailhead is on the right a few hundred feet after you pass the Granite Flats CG shack. On the trail, you will come to a junction after 1/4 mile. Take the left fork. If you miss the fork, you will soon reach the Silver Lake Flats road, just follow it to the bend, where you will find another trail which will put you back on track.
Waypoint 1
Community Flat
Elevation: 9650
Feature: Meadow
Notes: It is the saddle north of Box Elder Peaks dividing the Deer Creek drainage (Granite Flat) from the Dry Creek drainage (Alpine). If you are looking for a good place to camp overnight, this is a good place to do it. Hunters use it as a base during hunting season.
Destination
Box Elder Peak
Elevation: 11101
Feature: Peak
Notes: The views from Box Elder Peak are great. You can see Lone Peak to the northwest, the Alpine Ridge running east and Mount Timpanogos to the south. You might see mountain goats there. There is a huge cirque on the north side of the mountain. The folded rocks look really cool.
via Community Flat
Hike Time (roundtrip): 7.5 to 11.5 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 10.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 4331 feet
Main Aspect: All Directions
Climb Rate: 833 feet per mile
Average Grade: 16%
Notes: The trail is the best part of the hike. You get to see lots of diversity in terrain and plant life. At the saddle (Community Flat), turn left (south) and head up the ridge. The trail occasionally wanders off the ridgeline, but I learned it is easily to stick as close as you can to the ridgeline.
Trailhead
Granite Flat North TH
Trailhead Elevation: 6770 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes
Distance from Fee Station: 8.1 miles
Area: American Fork Canyon
Area Location: East on Timpanogos Hwy (SR92), exit 284 in Utah County
Area Fee: $6
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Notes: The Granite Flats North trailhead is on the right a few hundred feet after you pass the Granite Flats CG shack. On the trail, you will come to a junction after 1/4 mile. Take the left fork. If you miss the fork, you will soon reach the Silver Lake Flats road, just follow it to the bend, where you will find another trail which will put you back on track.
Waypoint 1
Community Flat
Elevation: 9650
Feature: Meadow
Notes: It is the saddle north of Box Elder Peaks dividing the Deer Creek drainage (Granite Flat) from the Dry Creek drainage (Alpine). If you are looking for a good place to camp overnight, this is a good place to do it. Hunters use it as a base during hunting season.
Destination
Box Elder Peak
Elevation: 11101
Feature: Peak
Notes: The views from Box Elder Peak are great. You can see Lone Peak to the northwest, the Alpine Ridge running east and Mount Timpanogos to the south. You might see mountain goats there. There is a huge cirque on the north side of the mountain. The folded rocks look really cool.
Angel Flat
Angel Flat from Granite Flat South TH
Hike Time (roundtrip): 2.5 to 4.5 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 3.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 1985 feet
Main Aspect: East
Climb Rate: 1045 feet per mile
Average Grade: 20%
Notes: This trail follows Wide Hollow Canyon. It is under the canopy most of the way, but goes through a few meadows. It climbs quickly. At 1.6 miles the trail comes to the edge of Wide Hollow. There is a great view of the hollow and the mountains on the other side. You can not see Box Elder yet because of a false summit. There are remains of an old cabin in this area
Trailhead
Granite Flat South TH
Trailhead Elevation: 6765 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes
Distance from Fee Station: 8.2 miles
Area: American Fork Canyon
Area Location: East on Timpanogos Hwy (SR92), exit 284 in Utah County
Area Fee: $6
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Notes: Drive past the main trailhead parking on the right a few hundred feet after Granite Flats CG shack. The parking lot you are looking for is another tenth mile. Park in the group picnic area on the right after crossing the bridge. The trail leaves from the west end of the lot. Parking is free for hikers.
Destination
Angel Flat
Elevation: 8750
Feature: Meadow
Notes: At 1.9 miles you will come to a junction in a meadow named Angel Flat. The right fork goes to the north saddle via White Canyon. The left junction takes you to the south saddle. The peak to the west is not Box Elder, that is a false summit.
Hike Time (roundtrip): 2.5 to 4.5 hours
Distance (roundtrip): 3.8 miles
Elevation Gain: 1985 feet
Main Aspect: East
Climb Rate: 1045 feet per mile
Average Grade: 20%
Notes: This trail follows Wide Hollow Canyon. It is under the canopy most of the way, but goes through a few meadows. It climbs quickly. At 1.6 miles the trail comes to the edge of Wide Hollow. There is a great view of the hollow and the mountains on the other side. You can not see Box Elder yet because of a false summit. There are remains of an old cabin in this area
Trailhead
Granite Flat South TH
Trailhead Elevation: 6765 ft
Trailhead Outhouse: Yes
Distance from Fee Station: 8.2 miles
Area: American Fork Canyon
Area Location: East on Timpanogos Hwy (SR92), exit 284 in Utah County
Area Fee: $6
Dogs Allowed: Yes
Notes: Drive past the main trailhead parking on the right a few hundred feet after Granite Flats CG shack. The parking lot you are looking for is another tenth mile. Park in the group picnic area on the right after crossing the bridge. The trail leaves from the west end of the lot. Parking is free for hikers.
Destination
Angel Flat
Elevation: 8750
Feature: Meadow
Notes: At 1.9 miles you will come to a junction in a meadow named Angel Flat. The right fork goes to the north saddle via White Canyon. The left junction takes you to the south saddle. The peak to the west is not Box Elder, that is a false summit.
Wednesday, June 8, 2016
Wind Cave
We did some hiking in Logan Canyon last week. We’d heard about an uphill hike to a unique featured called The Wind Cave, so we left the kids at Grandma’s and tried the hike on our own. Everyone who has spent time in Logan has told us to try this hike.
First, let me say we saw quite a few kids on this hike. Second, let me say that I’m not sure how they made it. This hike is fairly long and consistently steep. In addition, you are in direct sun pretty much any time you do the hike. I would say that our kids would have made it with some amount of complaining. The hike is similar to The Living Room hike above Salt Lake City. (It’s also hard for me to rate this hike, as I was pretty sick the day we went!) If you do take children, just take your time and make sure to go when it will be cool. We were very grateful that we hiked in October.
The hike is an uphill climb the whole 1.7 miles.
Halfway through the hike, you will see Wind Cave off in the distance. But you still have a while before you arrive.
The payoff, though is pretty unique. A limestone cave was formed underground thousands of years ago. Since then, the Logan River has cut the soil away leaving the cave exposed. So the limestone is intact, but it is standing in the open air. It’s not a cave in the dark, flashlight sense, it’s more like a few giant alcoves that are exposed to the outside light. There are some pretty neat places to explore, and our kids would’ve loved it. We spent almost an hour enjoying the shade and relaxing in Wind Cave. There are two different alcoves to explore and lots of great photo ops. Watch your children as there are some steep drop offs when you are near Wind Cave.
To find Wind Cave, drive up Logan Canyon 5 miles until you see a sign for the Malibu Campground. Park across from the park/campground. There is a sign that tells about how Wind Cave was formed and other information about the cave. This is where the hike begins. The hike is 3.5 miles round trip and you climb 1100 feet. At least the hike back down is super easy. 🙂
We made it! Randy was sick the entire way, but he was such a trooper. Definitely worth the climb.
We did not take our kids on this hike, but we hope to go back and show them this awesome Wind Cave. When we do, we will definitely take our hiking child carrier for our youngest. It is an essential when hiking longer, steeper hikes.
First, let me say we saw quite a few kids on this hike. Second, let me say that I’m not sure how they made it. This hike is fairly long and consistently steep. In addition, you are in direct sun pretty much any time you do the hike. I would say that our kids would have made it with some amount of complaining. The hike is similar to The Living Room hike above Salt Lake City. (It’s also hard for me to rate this hike, as I was pretty sick the day we went!) If you do take children, just take your time and make sure to go when it will be cool. We were very grateful that we hiked in October.
The hike is an uphill climb the whole 1.7 miles.
Halfway through the hike, you will see Wind Cave off in the distance. But you still have a while before you arrive.
The payoff, though is pretty unique. A limestone cave was formed underground thousands of years ago. Since then, the Logan River has cut the soil away leaving the cave exposed. So the limestone is intact, but it is standing in the open air. It’s not a cave in the dark, flashlight sense, it’s more like a few giant alcoves that are exposed to the outside light. There are some pretty neat places to explore, and our kids would’ve loved it. We spent almost an hour enjoying the shade and relaxing in Wind Cave. There are two different alcoves to explore and lots of great photo ops. Watch your children as there are some steep drop offs when you are near Wind Cave.
To find Wind Cave, drive up Logan Canyon 5 miles until you see a sign for the Malibu Campground. Park across from the park/campground. There is a sign that tells about how Wind Cave was formed and other information about the cave. This is where the hike begins. The hike is 3.5 miles round trip and you climb 1100 feet. At least the hike back down is super easy. 🙂
We made it! Randy was sick the entire way, but he was such a trooper. Definitely worth the climb.
We did not take our kids on this hike, but we hope to go back and show them this awesome Wind Cave. When we do, we will definitely take our hiking child carrier for our youngest. It is an essential when hiking longer, steeper hikes.
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