COVID-19 measures in Utah

57hours is committed to providing safe outdoor adventure experiences. We require all guides using our platform to have a COVID-19 safety plan and to make the details of that plan accessible to travelers. In most cases, group sizes will be reduced, guides will avoid overcrowded locations, and other safety measures will be met depending on the location and activity. We also expect clients to respect local regulations and take measures to protect themselves, guides and the communities they’re traveling to. For more information on COVID-19 measures in Utah, please refer to the official Utah’s government website . Please contact us if you have any questions or require further information. We are happy to provide you with the most up-to-date information!

What you get in this adventure: A certified Utah backcountry ski guide with extensive knowledge of the area 1 or 2 full days of backcountry ski touring Avalanche beacon, shovel, probe, and pack (if needed) What’s not included: Technical backcountry ski touring equipment Lift tickets for you and your guide (your guide will advise you on the best options) Meals and snacks Accommodations Transportation Trip insurance

How fit do I need to be?

In order to enjoy this Wasatch backcountry ski trip, you need to have a moderate to high level of fitness. You will be on your feet for a full day. While there is terrain for all skill levels in the Wasatch Mountains, you will need to manage controlled descents in variable conditions. All participants should feel comfortable on blue-level resort runs and be able to carry a loaded daypack while skinning up variable degrees of terrain. For the enjoyment and safety of everyone involved, participants must be approved to participate in advanced backcountry skiing tours either through a previous trip with the guiding service or through recommendations.

What if I’ve never backcountry skied before?

Backcountry skiing isn’t just for pros looking for the ultimate thrill ride, it’s also beginner-friendly, meaning anyone with blue-level resort experience can have fun in the backcountry. If you’ve never backcountry skied before, heading out with a guide is your best bet. They’ll take care of the planning, introduce you to the basics, like skinning uphill, and teach you how to manage the terrain. They also have the experience and avalanche training to keep you safe.

What about required equipment and rentals?

All mandatory gear can be rented if you don’t have your own. You can rent: Avalanche safety pack, including backpack, beacon, shovel and probe Alpine touring or telemark skis, touring boots and poles can be rented from Wasatch Touring and Outdoor Adventures Splitboards can be rented from Outdoor Adventures and Wasatch Touring Ski rental locations are in Salt Lake City and should be picked up the night prior to your outing. If you need to rent gear, let us know and we can help make arrangements. For technical backcountry ski touring gear, you will need to bring: Alpine touring skis, telemark skis or splitboard with skins (can be rented) Touring boots and poles (can be rented) Avalanche safety equipment (can be rented): Digital, 3-antenna avalanche transceiver or beacon Lightweight snow shovel Avalanche probe For personal items, we recommend bringing: Wind and waterproof shell jacket with hood (Gore-tex recommended) Ski pants (Gore-tex recommended) Helmet Synthetic or wool base layers, underwear and socks Down jacket or vest Gloves and hat One triple-action locking carabiner or two conventional locking carabiners Repair kit and Leatherman for your equipment (can be shared between several people) Water bottle and 1L of water Food you can eat on-the-go Sunglasses or ski goggles First-aid kit Sunscreen Daypack large enough to carry all items listed (around a 30-40L bag) Camera — optional

Group sizes and age requirements

Groups and pricing: For Backcountry 101, Powder Skiing, and Essentials Course, the max client-to-guide ratio is 4:1. For the Advanced Tours, the client-to-guide ratio is 2:1. The cost per person decreases as the group grows, so it’s the perfect opportunity to backcountry ski with friends and family. Ski touring in Utah’s Wasatch Range can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements: Everybody over the age of 18 is welcome to book this backcountry skiing adventure. Minors may be permitted to join private tours on a case-by-case basis. If you plan to ski with anyone under the age of 18, please contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Getting there and meeting location

To get to the Wasatch Range, most people fly into Salt Lake City International Airport. From there, you can rent a car or hire a shuttle . Expect to drive about 45 minutes to get to Park City, if you choose to stay in the mountain resort area. Skiing destinations are bordering the edge of SLC and located in the mountains on the way toward the resort area. Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet. You’ll meet your guide at the Little Cottonwood Park and Ride lot, Big Cottonwood Park and Ride lot, Alta or Brighton—depending on your destination. To get to Little Cottonwood Park and Ride lot, take UT-209/Little Cottonwood Road to the parking lot. Big Cottonwood Park and Ride lot is easily located off UT-190 E by taking FR021 before reaching Park City resort.

What about bad weather?

Mitigating avalanche risk is paramount for any excursion in the backcountry — that’s why it’s best to tour with a guide! Rest assured, your guide will set objectives that are attainable for the weather conditions on that particular day. Of course, inclement weather can always get in the way of backcountry skiing, but your guide will know the best course of action to take if the weather takes a turn. On the rare occasion of truly bad weather, your guide will present you with suitable, safe alternatives. The most common practice is to move to a nearby location if it exists, or to reschedule your backcountry ski tour to a more favorable day. If backcountry skiing is not possible on your scheduled day and no options presented are viable, you will be issued a full refund.

Why should I book with 57hours?

With us, it’s all play and no work for you! 57hours is an open platform that connects you with trained and certified outdoor adventure professionals all over the world. Using our tech-savvy, we make it super easy to find and book adventures worth tackling, with guides worth booking, all gathered from the first-hand experiences of the locals who adventure in these amazing locations.

Backcountry Ski in the Wasatch Mountains

Over the past century, the vast and rugged area of the Wasatch Mountains has become a ski mecca with six major resorts scattered amid thousands of acres of pristine backcountry terrain.

If you are looking for a true winter adventure, this is where you need to be. Whether you’re a newcomer looking to earn your turns or you’re craving some adrenaline-inducing steep skiing, this idyllic range will keep you entertained for days. Grab your touring equipment and head to the mountains!

Shredding powder on the northern face of Wasatch range.

Backcountry skiing in Cottonwood Canyons

Enough terrain for a lifetime

Located on the western edge of the Rockies, stretching for 160 miles of pure adventure, the Wasatch Range ensures prime conditions, boundless terrain, and no crowds—like it was sculpted with the backcountry skier in mind!

The alpine season for the big lines starts in late November and lasts through March, so if you’re looking to boost your experience on the slopes with some ski mountaineering, there’s no better place to be.

With approximately 60,000 skiable acres in the Wasatch, there are tons of objectives for every level of skier, from mellow tree skiing to low angle meadows and steep pencil couloirs. The diversity and numerous hidden gems along the way will make you start planning your next visit as soon as you leave!

OVER 60,000 ACRES
SUPERB TERRAIN
APRES-SKI SCENE
41.3° N AND 111.5° W
EASY ACCESS

Snowy playground waiting to be explored

The Wasatch Range rises high above the most populated areas of Utah. Its highest peak in the central Wasatch, Mount Nebo, is just shy of 11,900 feet. For most of the winter, you can find long and mellow runs up to 6500ft.

However, one of the biggest attractions in Wasatch is that all the major Utah ski areas are virtually adjacent, connected by miles of snowy slopes and peaks.

Wasatch Mountain Range is the perfect venue for backcountry skiing

Skier enjoying the best champagne snow in the Wasatch area.

THE COTTONWOOD CANYONS

Just half an hour from Salt Lake City, you will find Big and Little Cottonwood Canyons serving up world-class backcountry skiing. There are two major roads running parallel to one another, split by a prominent ridgeline where you can ski more downhill than you climb.

Shaped over centuries, the canyons are a spectacular setting known for the best champagne powder. With wide-open bowls, steep chutes, long-scenic runs, and unbeatable views, there’s a lifetime of possibility.

For those just starting out, the upper south side of Big Cottonwood Canyon offers a plethora of safe options for low-angle skiing amongst the stunning aspen glades. The Little Cottonwood Canyon, from White pine all the way to Lone Peak, offers a big ski environment with steeper and more challenging terrain.

Enjoy a day of backcountry skiing with a guide through the pristine slopes of Cottonwood Canyons

MOUNT SUPERIOR

This Wasatch classic is one of the most iconic ski mountains in the western United States. It is a serious ski-mountaineering feat, requiring more than 3,000 feet of climbing, some of which are exposed and rocky. Still, the dramatic vistas and two main ski descents off of the summit, Cardiac Bowl and the South Face make it all worth it.

While the South Face is incredibly steep and dramatic, the legendary Cardiac Bowl is more mellow and leads to a large open bowl perfect for shredding powder.

Peak in the Wasatch Range perfect for experienced ski mountaineers

Perfect venue
for every skill level

Easy access to fresh pow

Salt Lake City has the best access to pristine outdoor terrain in the Lower 48 states! Conveniently located just an hour from the neighboring Wasatch, SLC is just an hour away from most of the ski locations and trailheads in the area. The convenience of the airport makes it quick and easy to get your ski-cation started!

Thanks to a sprawling landscape, it’s not hard to find fresh turns, including chutes steeper than 50 degrees to gladed meadows and massive bowls. If you bring your skins and are prepared for 30-minute ascents, you’ll quickly find untracked terrain straight from the parking lot! And don’t worry, every foot of elevation you gain skinning up is rewarded with great turns on the way back down.

View of the ridge over Park City, the go-to apres-ski location

GREATEST SNOW ON EARTH

When you combine the epic Wasatch terrain with easy access and 500” of perfect density snow each year, you get one of the best off-piste ski locations in the U.S.

Thanks to its ideal location, Wasatch gets about 40 storms and the best fluffy snow each year.

As storms travel over the Great Salt Lake, they gather moisture, and since the lake is so salty, it doesn’t freeze, keeping plenty of moisture available. As it rolls over the 10,000 ft mountain peaks, it is supercooled and turns to the priceless blower powder that makes for epic days in the backcountry.

A skier in deep power on the mountain ridgeline around Park City.

PLENTY OF SKI-MO OBJECTIVES

Take your skiing to the next level—ski-mountaineering offers a whole new world of exciting challenges! Experience the sheer natural beauty of the snowy wilderness and explore remote parts of a mountain that are otherwise inaccessible to skiers.

Some of the classics include Mount Superior’s South Face, Thunder Ridge’s Hypodermic Needle, and the Silver Couloir.

Once you reach the summit, there are several different ways down, creating a thrilling adventure that will make your heart skip a beat.

Snowbird offer long, open runs and big ski bowl.

Why go backcountry skiing?

Head for the mountains! Leave the resorts behind and put your skins on as you embark on an exciting backcountry adventure with virtually limitless options. Backcountry skiing or snowboarding allows you to explore everything around you, giving a lifetime of exploration near and far.

Jackson Hole has over 200 bluebird days!

The Wasatch area is famous for its cold smoke cowboy powder

Enjoy spectacular vistas from mountaintops of the Tetons

Amazingly vast terrain without the usual resort crowds

Some newcomers decide to save the time by hopping on a ski lift in Wasatch sidecountry.

SOLITUDE AND FRESH POW

Beyond the trailheads and resorts, there are thousands of acres of diverse, untracked backcountry. Ski resorts often get overcrowded so fast that skiing becomes stressful as you rush to get to the snow before everyone else. This isn’t the case here, so leave the crowds behind and enter the freedom of the hills!

BLUEBIRD DAYS

With plenty of sunny days and 500 inches of snow per year, Wasatch suits both those in search of powder and those that just want to enjoy the fresh air and amazing landscapes. Even when the weather conditions aren’t great and the visibility is limited, you can spend the day skiing through tree glades!

SPECTACULAR LANDSCAPES

Once you reach your slope, you’ll have a wonderful overview of the valleys below you. As you look at the awe-worthy mountains in the distance, you’ll feel equally small and pumped up about the descent. It’s also fun to see all the animal tracks in the snow or the developing hoarfrost in meadows. It’s the little things that make the day most interesting.

PEACE AND QUIET IN THE WILDERNESS

The backcountry provides a perfect getaway from the urban buzz and everyday life! As you’re speeding down a secluded slope surrounded by breathtaking nature, you have a chance to leave your worries behind and focus on the here and now.

BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

One of the plus sides of having several ski resorts nearby is access to the lift chairs. If you are not so keen on too much climbing, head to the off-piste area just beyond the fences and ropes of the resort.

Another great thing is that many runs are very accessible without too much skinning. You can easily ski a 3000 ft run in half a day or less and feel completely reenergized, which is why many locals go for a short ski session before heading to work.

Make the most
of your day

STAY SAFE ON THE SLOPES

With great backcountry skiing comes great responsibility! With many potential dangers out there, proper safety practices are more important than ever.

The backcountry introduces an entirely new set of factors that will determine whether you go, or turn around and go home. The best way to gain decision-making experience is to spend a great deal of time with people who already have these skills.

On the plus side, Utah has arguably the best avalanche forecast centre in the world. There are tons of stations and data points that can help your guide decide what is the best and safest option.

Avalanche is always a possibility in Wasatch.

A climber posing for a photo with Wasatch in the background

IMPROVE YOUR SKILLS

Master the fundamentals or expand your existing skill set on top-notch terrain with Utah’s best ski guides! Refine your navigation, skin track setting, and downhill travel skills while brushing up on your avalanche safety skills.

One of the features of this ski tour is its flexibility. All levels of skiers can participate because your guide will adapt the itinerary according to your experience.

The guide will oversee your technique and teach you how to manage the terrain better while focusing on your abilities and goals!

Skier jumping over a snowy ridge with sun illuminating the trailing snow dust. Shot in Utah with professional athlete wearing orange jacket and white pant, helmet and goggles.

PEACE OF MIND

Hiring a guide is the safest thing you can do, whether you are completely new to the sport or not, and this is your easy one-stop shop where you can connect with the most experienced local guides out there.

They will take all of the guesswork out of your time in the backcountry. From tour planning to route selection, terrain management, safety, and gear knowledge, your guide’s expertise and backcountry experience will ensure you have an unforgettable ski touring adventure.

Leave your worries behind and let your guide handle the logistics as you focus on the thrill of the backcountry!

A guide leading the group through the Wasatch backcountry.

Backcountry skiing is a gear-sensitive activity

GET THE PARTY STARTED

No matter what your goals in the backcountry are, relaxing at your favorite après-ski hangout is a crucial part of the ski experience. Numerous lively restaurants, bars, and bistros offer something for everyone—from hot meals and beverages to fresh cocktails and beer.

Situated between country’s most famous ski resorts, Park City Mountain Resort and Deer Valley Resort, you will find Park City—THE spot for wintersport enthusiasts.

There are over 200 après-ski venues including numerous restaurants, bistros, craft breweries, and local distilleries.

The apres ski scene is lively in Jackson Hole.

A couple enjoying drinks on a sunny afternoon in Wasatch

Go out with a guide

A DSLR photo of a man skiing in deep powder snow at Snowbird ski resort in Utah, USA. Close to 2 feet of new snow on the slope, The skier is in action and alone with powder behind him. The trees are cover of frost and snow and the sky is clear blue on this epic winter day.

BACKCOUNTRY 101

Ready to level up from the resort? During this one-day introduction, you’ll learn how to comfortably ski in the backcountry. Gain techniques such as the basics of alpine ski touring equipment, avalanche safety, and route planning. By the end of the day, you’ll confidently carve turns in Utah’s Wasatch Range.

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ESSENTIALS COURSE

This customized course will inspire you and leave you with new skills and outstanding know-how in the backcountry. Over two days in Wasatch, you’ll learn how to confidently ski tour and navigate backcountry terrain. Understand and practice essential avalanche skills, beacon rescue, safe route selection, efficient skinning, and downhill techniques while enjoying the legendary terrain!

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A skier enjoying the deep fluffy powder in the Wasatch Mountains

POWDER SKIING

Prepare for an epic backcountry ski adventure in the best locations the Wasatch Mountains have to offer. Whether you’re looking for tree glades, steep chutes, or endless turns, your guide will seek out the best conditions for your goals. Each trip is tailored to your ability, with guides bringing safety and expert knowledge to your mountain adventure.

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Two skiers climbing a mountain before shredding powder

ADVANCED TOURS

Whether you’re taking on some of Mt. Superior’s biggest challenges, the East Face of Lone Peak or Wolverine Cirque for gravity-defying chutes, expect 5000 to 8000 feet of climbing and skiing over roughly eight to ten hours. Let certified guides plan out the route and take care of the safety while you focus on your turns and techniques.

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Meet your guides

Guiding since 2000, Todd Passey is an IFMGA/UIAGM licensed Mountain Guide living in Utah. Todd guides all over the world and has climbed and guided the Seven Summits! Still, the Wasatch Mountains remain his favorite place to find fresh backcountry powder. In 2009, Todd, Winslow Passey, and Tim Connelly started their own guiding company appropriately named In The Company of Guides.

Based out of Sandy, Utah, Willie Benegas is the co-founder of Benegas Brothers Expeditions. He’s an IFMGA Mountain Guide, AMGA Ski Mountaineering Guide, and has been to the summit of Mount Everest 13 times! With a stack of accomplishments too long to list, there’s no person more qualified or experienced int he mountains than Willie.

Todd and Willie decided to join forces and share their knowledge about big mountain skiing by founding the Wasatch Mountain Guides. WMG is a group of professional Utah backcountry ski guides dedicated to demonstrating their passionate commitment to sustainability and deep-held understanding and love for nature.

Todd Passey, certified mountain guide and founder of In the Company of Guides

He has the highest level of formal guide certification as an IFMGA guide. Willie is an expert in all climbing, skiing and mountaineering disciplines. However, it is Willie’s passion for the environment and for teaching that really separates him from other guides. Willie is a wealth of knowledge and skill, and he can help any adventure seeker have an epic trip in deep powder, on any rock or on any mountain.

Todd was very professional and extremely knowledgeable. We had an amazing time even though the weather did not cooperate. Todd made sure we got to ski and made the experience unforgettable. I’m glad someone like him exists in the skiing community to share his experience and skills. I would highly recommend him as a guide.

I have ice climbed and skied with Todd. He is a great teacher and great company. A couple of years back we climbed the Great White Icicle in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah , which was a 5 pitch WI 2/3 climb with my wife Maria and Todd. It was a great experience and a nice introduction to water ice. Hope to get back to SLC sometime soon to do some climbing with a Todd – rock, ice or alpine. Todd and Winslow run a great outfit. Highly recommended!

A few years ago I was keen to start backcountry skiing but didn’t feel comfortable going by myself. I called INTOG who assessed my skill level and took me to an area of the Utah Wasatch that I’d have never dared go on my own. But I felt like I was in very capable hands with Todd Passey. I could tell he was assessing my fitness and skill the entire time we were out to ensure I could handle the terrain he was taking me into. He taught me lessons before leaving the parking lot right up until we were back at the car. He showed me how to use my beacon, how to skin with the least effort, how to kick-turn without falling over, and most importantly how to judge the snow to ensure we were staying in areas that were safe. I’ve gone out with INTOG several times since then. I’m comfortable doing it on my own now but still enjoy going out with Todd and team because each time I learn more, get more comfortable with the technical aspect of BC skiing, experience new hidden areas of the Wasatch, and…I simply enjoy being around the guides. They’re just great folks who push you to do things you didn’t think you could do, and they do it in a safe and comfortable way. My skiing has improved because of my time with them, and you can bet I’ll be back for more as soon as the snow starts flying.

John was an amazing guide & we had the most amazing time with him. We can’t thank him enough for ending our vacation on the biggest note ever! The experience was not only professional but one we will never forget. Thank you again John!!!

Had an epic 2-day tour. It was my first experience in the back country. We skied with John, he was extremely knowledgable about terrain and snow. Tons of experience. Saw beautiful country and had lots of fun.

He is extremely strong, experienced and he cares about you at all times. It is impossible not to feel happy and confident in Willie’s team and I would without hesitation go anywhere in the world with him.