Explore Utah

Best backcountry skiing areas

Utah’s legendary snow and rugged terrain make it a top destination for backcountry skiing. With abundant steep chutes, powder-filled bowls, and tree-lined glades, the state offers endless adventure for those exploring beyond resort boundaries. Here are some of Utah’s best backcountry skiing areas, complete with maps, guides, and optional guiding services for those wanting expert guidance.

Little Cottonwood Canyon

Little Cottonwood Canyon is home to world-renowned backcountry terrain, just minutes from Salt Lake City. With areas like Mount Superior, Grizzly Gulch, and Cardiff Pass, the canyon offers challenging lines and some of the best powder in the world.

  • Location: Near Salt Lake City, UT
  • Features: Steep chutes, open bowls, powder snow
  • Maps & Guides: Little Cottonwood Canyon Backcountry Map
  • Guiding Services: Utah Mountain Adventures – Offers private and group tours for all skill levels

Big Cottonwood Canyon

With easier access than its sister canyon, Big Cottonwood Canyon offers more beginner-friendly backcountry skiing areas like Butler Fork and Circle All Peak. At the same time, advanced skiers can head to places like Silver Fork. It’s a prime destination for glade skiing, with plenty of snow and stunning scenery.

  • Location: Near Salt Lake City, UT
  • Features: Glades, powder, scenic views
  • Maps & Guides: Big Cottonwood Canyon Backcountry Map
  • Guiding Services: Exum Utah – Professional guiding service with ski tours in Big Cottonwood and surrounding areas

The Uinta Mountains

For a quieter, more remote experience, the Uinta Mountains offer a peaceful backcountry setting with alpine bowls, forested runs, and an impressive snowpack. Most famous for overnight and multi-day tours, the Uintas provide a range of terrain options from mild slopes to steep descents.

  • Location: Eastern Utah
  • Features: Remote terrain, alpine bowls, ideal for multi-day trips
  • Maps & Guides: Uinta Mountains Trail Map
  • Guiding Services: Inspired Summit Adventures – Offers custom backcountry tours in the Uintas and Wasatch

Mount Timpanogos

Known for its long ski season, Mount Timpanogos is a favorite for spring skiing. The summit offers breathtaking views, while the descent covers thousands of vertical feet of varied terrain, from alpine bowls to forested glades.

  • Location: Utah County, UT
  • Features: High-altitude skiing, long descents, varied terrain
  • Maps & Guides: Mount Timpanogos Trail Map
  • Guiding Services: Utah Mountain Adventures – Known for guided trips up Timpanogos and other Wasatch areas

Powder Mountain Backcountry

Powder Mountain is known for its massive, skiable acreage and offers guided backcountry tours across its expansive, unspoiled terrain. With open bowls, glades, and plenty of powder, it’s a backcountry skier’s paradise, and their guided tours provide access to pristine areas.

  • Location: Near Ogden, UT
  • Features: Extensive terrain, open powder bowls, glade skiing
  • Maps & Guides: Powder Mountain Trail Map
  • Guiding Services: Powder Mountain Backcountry Guides – On-mountain guides offering tours and snowcat-accessed terrain

The La Sal Mountains

Located near Moab, the La Sal Mountains provide a unique skiing experience with desert views. These mountains feature challenging terrain with technical descents, high elevation, and scenic vistas stretching over red rock desert landscapes.

  • Location: Near Moab, UT
  • Features: High-altitude skiing, unique desert views, technical descents
  • Maps & Guides: La Sal Mountain Trail Map
  • Guiding Services: Red River Adventures – Offers backcountry ski tours with experienced guides in the La Sal Mountains.

Ben Lomond Peak

Ben Lomond Peak is a popular spot for experienced backcountry skiers, providing challenging and rewarding lines with high vertical drops and stunning views. The north-facing slope holds snow well, making it an excellent choice for spring skiing.

  • Location: Weber County, UT
  • Features: High vertical drop, scenic peaks, challenging lines
  • Maps & Guides: Ben Lomond Peak Trail Map
  • Guiding Services: Ogden Valley Backcountry Guides – Offers guided ski tours and advice on local routes.

Wasatch Plateau

The Wasatch Plateau offers serene backcountry skiing areas with fewer crowds, and it’s a great spot for skiers looking for more solitude. The terrain is varied, providing options for skiers of different skill levels, and the plateau is ideal for day tours or multi-day trips.

  • Location: Central Utah
  • Features: Varied terrain, fewer crowds, multi-day trip options
  • Maps & Guides: Wasatch Plateau Trail Map
  • Guiding Services: San Rafael Wilderness Guides – Experienced guides for Wasatch Plateau and nearby areas

Essential Tips for Backcountry Skiing in Utah

Before setting out, Be prepared for backcountry conditions:

  • Avalanche Safety: Check avalanche forecasts, and carry a beacon, probe, and shovel.
  • Maps and Navigation: Use GPS maps like those on the OnX Backcountry or Gaia apps.
  • Guided Options: Hiring a guide enhances safety and knowledge, especially in unfamiliar areas.
  • Permits and Access: Some areas may require permits; check with local forest services or resorts.

 

Backcountry skiing in Utah offers thrilling adventures, stunning scenery, and unforgettable powder. By exploring these areas and utilizing the maps, guides, and optional guiding services, you can experience the best of Utah’s backcountry. Whether you’re looking for solo exploration or expert-guided tours, the Wasatch Mountains, Uintas, and more await your next adventure.