Lykkers, are you looking for the perfect mountain getaway? Whether you love hiking, skiing, or simply enjoying breathtaking landscapes, the Wasatch Range has it all.
Let’s dive into this ultimate travel guide and plan your adventure!
Where Is the Wasatch Range?
The Wasatch Range stretches approximately 160 miles (260 km) across Utah and southeastern Idaho. It forms the western edge of the Rocky Mountains and acts as a natural boundary between the Great Basin and the greener, mountainous regions to the east. The range runs through key cities like Salt Lake City and Provo, making it one of the most accessible mountain destinations in the U.S.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit depends on your interests:
Winter (December–March): Perfect for skiing and snowboarding. Resorts typically open in late November and stay operational until April.
Spring (April–June): Great for hiking as the snow melts, revealing lush landscapes and waterfalls.
Summer (July–September): Best for camping, mountain biking, and rock climbing.
Autumn (September–November): A must-visit for fall foliage, with golden aspen trees covering the mountains.
How to Get There
By Air: The closest airport is Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC), just a 30-minute drive from the Wasatch Range.
By Car: Major highways like I-15 and I-80 provide easy access. Renting a car is recommended for flexibility.
By Public Transport: Utah Transit Authority (UTA) operates ski buses during winter to resorts like Alta and Snowbird. In summer, limited public transport is available to hiking areas.
Top Attractions & Ticket Prices
1. Snowbird Ski Resort
- Why Visit: World-class skiing, scenic tram rides, summer hiking trails.
- Ticket Price: Winter lift tickets start at $125/day; summer tram rides cost $25/adult.
- Open Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (winter), 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM (summer).
2. Mount Timpanogos & Timpanogos Cave
- Why Visit: A breathtaking mountain with a famous cave system.
- Ticket Price: Cave tour tickets are $12/adult, $7/child.
- Open Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM (May–September).
Tip: Cave tours require a 1.5-mile steep hike to the entrance, so wear good hiking shoes.
3. Big Cottonwood Canyon
- Why Visit: Stunning drives, wildflowers in summer, amazing ski slopes in winter.
- Ticket Price: Free entry.
- Open Hours: Always open, but roads may be closed in winter due to heavy snow.
4. Mirror Lake Scenic Byway
- Why Visit: A picturesque drive leading to lakes, hiking trails, and picnic spots.
- Ticket Price: A $6 recreation fee is required for some areas.
- Open Hours: Mid-June to late October (closed in winter due to snow).
Accommodation Options
Luxury Stay: The Cliff Lodge at Snowbird ($300+/night) with spa and mountain views.
Mid-Range: Park City Peaks Hotel ($180+/night) close to ski resorts.
Budget-Friendly: Salt Lake City motels and hostels ($70+/night).
Camping: Albion Basin Campground ($25/night), best for summer stays.
Travel Tips
Dress in layers. Weather can change quickly in the mountains.
Altitude awareness. Some areas are over 10,000 ft, so drink water and pace yourself.
Check road conditions. Winter storms can close mountain passes.
Bring a camera. The scenery is stunning year-round!
Are You Ready to Explore?
The Wasatch Range is a dream destination for outdoor lovers. Whether you’re hitting the ski slopes, hiking a scenic trail, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views, this mountain range has something for everyone.
Lykkers, have you visited the Wasatch Range before, or is it now on your travel list? Let’s chat in the comments below!
Top 15 Places to see in the Wasatch Mountains of UTAH!
Video by The Travel Trail
