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The Majestic Wasatch Range

Explore Utah's iconic Wasatch Range: A year-round destination for outdoor adventures, stunning scenery, and rich history in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.

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The Wasatch Range, a prominent mountain range in the western United States, stretches approximately 160 miles from the Utah-Idaho border through central Utah. It forms the western edge of the Rocky Mountains and the eastern boundary of the Great Basin. Known for its stunning peaks, outdoor recreation opportunities, and vital resources, the Wasatch Range is a defining feature of Utah's landscape.

A brief summary to Wasatch Range

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Local tips

  • The best time to visit for hiking is late spring, summer, and early fall when the weather is warm and the trails are clear.
  • For winter sports, visit during the winter months to enjoy the heavy snowfall and world-class ski resorts.
  • Be sure to check the weather forecast before heading out, as conditions in the mountains can change quickly.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking or engaging in other strenuous activities.
  • Consider using public transportation or carpooling to reduce traffic and parking congestion, especially during peak season.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    The Wasatch Range is easily accessible from Salt Lake City and other major cities in Utah. From Salt Lake City International Airport, follow signs to I-80 E. To reach the central Wasatch canyons, take exit 117 and merge onto I-215 S. Take exit 6 and turn right onto 6200 S, which leads to Big Cottonwood Canyon (Solitude and Brighton) and Little Cottonwood Canyon (Alta and Snowbird). Note that parking reservations may be required at certain locations, especially during peak season. Check the official resort or town websites for the latest parking policies and reservation information. Roadside parking may be restricted in some areas. Day-use fees may apply at some trailheads and recreation areas. Check the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest website for details. During winter, be prepared for snowy and icy road conditions. Ensure your vehicle is properly equipped with appropriate tires or chains. Check road conditions before you go.

  • Public Transport

    Public transportation options are available to access the Wasatch Range, particularly the ski resorts. The UTA Ski Bus provides service to several ski resorts in Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons. Check the UTA website for schedules and routes. Park City Transit and High Valley Transit offer free transportation within the Wasatch Back area. These services connect Salt Lake City, Jeremy Ranch, Kimball Junction, Canyons Village, Park City, Deer Valley, Heber City, Kamas, and Francis. UTA also offers free parking for transit users at various park and ride lots throughout the Salt Lake Valley. These lots provide convenient access to the UTA bus and rail system. Fares for public transportation vary depending on the route and distance traveled. Check the UTA, Park City Transit, or High Valley Transit websites for fare information.

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Discover more about Wasatch Range

The Wasatch Range is a majestic mountain range that has been shaped by millions of years of geological activity, including faulting, volcanic activity, and glaciation. The range's history dates back a billion years when the area was part of a vast ocean. Over time, layers of sediment formed the foundation of the mountains we see today. Around 15 million years ago, the Wasatch Range began to rise, pushed up by forces deep within the Earth. The Wasatch Range is a vital source of water, timber, and granite for early settlers. Today, it continues to serve as the primary source of water for the populous Wasatch Front and provides year-round recreational opportunities to residents and visitors alike. The mountains were first viewed by white men in 1776 when Fathers Francisco Atanasio Dominguez and Silvestre Velez de Escalante traversed the range. The Wasatch Range offers a diverse range of recreational activities, including hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and winter sports. With hundreds of miles of trails winding through canyons and alpine valleys, there are endless opportunities for outdoor adventure. In winter, the Wasatch Range becomes a winter paradise, with heavy snowfall and world-class ski resorts. The combination of excellent snowfall conditions and proximity to major urban areas resulted in Salt Lake City hosting the 2002 Winter Olympics. The Wasatch Range is also home to a variety of flora and fauna. The mountains are covered in lush forests, with wildflowers adding a splash of color to the landscape during the late spring, summer, and early fall. Wildlife such as deer, elk, and moose can be spotted in the area. The Wasatch Range has earned a reputation as being an epicenter of outdoor recreation due to its proximity to Salt Lake City and infamous 11,000-foot peaks.

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