Alta All Year-Long

You know Alta and Little Cottonwood Canyon when it’s blanketed in snow. I mean, have you seen us this past year? But these Wasatch mountains don’t go anywhere in the summer. They’re equally beautiful and usable in the warm months too–even when snow’s still on the ground. If your hobbies can be described as simply “mountains,” regardless of season, we’ve got the itinerary for you.

Hiking

If you’re coming to Little Cottonwood Canyon to hike, you might as well get your money’s worth–don’t worry, it’s free. The Alta-Brighton Lakes Loop is an 8-mile, moderately challenging trail that ends right where it starts. A gorgeous loop that encircles four lakes, this trail is as picturesque and covered in green as it is doused in white.

Trail-running

If you get your kicks going uphill almost as fast as going downhill, you might be a trail-runner. The Cecret Lake from Albion Base trail is a popular out-and-back route with over 1,200 feet of elevation gain. The halfway mark overlooks Cecret Lake, which makes for an unbeatable break along the 4.5 miles of this moderately challenging running trail.

Mountain biking

Little Cottonwood Canyon’s trails seemingly never end. And that extends to Snowbird, as well. The Snowbird Climb to Tram & Big Mountain Downhill is the most popular mountain biking trail in the area. It’s 14.3 miles of scenic peaks reaching nearly 11,000 feet of elevation and blistering downhills with a max grade of 30%. Rated as difficult, this trail is not for the faint of heart. But you wouldn’t have made it all the way out here if you were, right?

Rock climbing

There is more climbing in Little Cottonwood Canyon than you can do in a lifetime. And yes, that is a challenge. Over 2,000 routes feature half bouldering and a third trad climbing. For the most variety, the north side of the canyon is where it’s at, with most climbs rating from 5.9-11. Check out all the Little Cottonwood Canyon climbs here.

While we’re technically closed for the season, we still love to see fans still take part in all the magic Alta has to offer. So get out there and enjoy.