In this post I share my top Utah hiking trail posts organized by area, season, difficulty and even one for dogs who hike. Most I published on Ski Utah’s blog under my name or as the “Yeti,” their ultra cool mascot. The lists are simple collections of the most popular hikes or others I’ve discovered are worth lacing up your …
Five great early winter hikes in Salt Lake City
As summer winds down and the days cool, it is a perfect time to hike some of my favorite trails along the “Front Range” of the Wasatch. These are also great hikes for early spring before the high trails clear of snow. These trails are located just minutes from downtown, and are low enough to remain snow-free into early winter. …
A short hike with great views: Mount Van Cott, Salt Lake City
My sister drove from Florida to Utah with me then stayed on a few days while I settled into my new home. Hiking and a visit to Ruby Snap Cookies were top priories while she was here. Looking for a short route near the city, low enough to be clear of snow; we opted for Mount Van Cott, a 6,348-foot …
What to Expect at the Alta Lodge
I’m always on the prowl for hangouts with local flavor. Even though Steve and I ski at Alta most of the winter, I had yet to visit a single business other than the on mountain cafes. Finally a few folks got wise to my single-minded visits (powder skiing) and invited me to spend the night. Of course I accepted, but …
Finding strength on Lone Peak
Success is achieved by developing our strengths, not by eliminating our weaknesses. – Marilyn vos Savant Utah’s Lone Peak tops at out 11,263’ and is considered the most difficult 11,000+ peak in the Wasatch Rage due to the mileage and vertical gain. It is an imposing peak, visible from Salt Lake City to Provo. With an average grade less than …
Night Skiing in Utah: Eight hills that deliver turns after dark
Looking for more time to ski? Let the sun set and shred into the night. These eight Utah ski resorts turn the lights on for skiers and riders allowing more time to play, often with fewer crowds and lower rates. Night skiing offers an option to locals who work during the day allowing them to miss the weekend rush. It …
The OmniGames in three minutes [VIDEO]
The quality of a person’s life is in direct proportion to their commitment to excellence, regardless of their chosen field of endeavor. -Vince Lombardi While working on yesterday’s OmniGames post, we quickly found that there just wasn’t a way to fully relay the feel of the games in one post, so we added a video. The two go together. The …
The OmniGames: Finding common bonds and inspiration in the outdoors
This post, while mostly written in my voice, was a collaborative effort between Andrew Commander and myself. A middle-aged flight instructor, a student, and a multi-million dollar corporation walk into a bar… What do they have in common? Nope, not a joke, and the student almost couldn’t get in because he was under-age. I’ll leave the bar unnamed to protect …
Red Butte Gardens Loop: A trail and patient friend
I’ve written briefly about this hike in my post, Five great early winter hikes in Salt Lake City, but I didn’t discuss it in depth. I didn’t share how this simple, beautiful, trail has helped me feel and process my emotions. It’s odd to think of a trail as a friend, but I do. I’ve grown a lot since moving …
Playtime at Snowbird Ski Resort: Oktoberfest and epic views
Seriously overworked with a case of sleep deprivation, I drove up Little Cottonwood Canyon for a needed break at Snowbird Ski Resort. My plan…meet with fellow blogger Joshua Riggins for an afternoon of Oktoberfest fun, connect with the Ski Utah crew for dinner on Hidden Peak, enjoy drinks at Aerie, and spend the night in the Cliff Lodge. My hair …