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Jake Ward

They say the mountains are calling...I try and answer. I grew up on the East coast and ventured towards Utah for the soft snow, endless mountains, and expansive canyons. I'm a University of Utah student, NOLS field instructor, and Leave No Trace Master educator.

I love hiking the Pfeifferhorn, especially in the winter. The route to the summit involves a great deal of avalanche terrain and I would highly advise that folks are also wearing transceivers (know how to use them) and bring a shovel and probe. It's important to check on the conditions with the Utah Avalanche Center and be prepared to rescue your partner in the case of an avalanche.

This place is magical, but it's got to be one of the most impacted areas in the Wasatch. It is often hard to find common sense at Donut Falls. Stay off the slopes above people, careful climbing in the boulders, and use only the main trail. Donut Falls is plagued with a spiderweb of trails around it in dangerous locations. Be careful, patient, and smart about your timing and you will be blown away by this waterfall.

Like said above, waking up in your own bed and having LCC as your backyard can't be beat. It's got the goods, and they are easy to get. Be weary of other backcountry users and practice safe snow travel and your powder days in the Wasatch won't be forgotten!

The Pfeifferhorn has to be one of the coolest summits in the Wasatch! It's a classic "horn" and provides incredible views of the Timpanogos, Box Elder Peak, across the Cottonwoods, and even Salt Lake City. I like to camp near the lake and head up in the morning to enjoy the first light of the day on the East ridge.

Such an incredible hike. So easy to access and you get everything from meadow walking to ridge scrambling. One of my favorite places to enjoy the sun go down in the summer.

06/20/16

Love this spot, often called "Left Hand" by locals, because it has such great vibes and fun cliffs! Be warned: the water can be quite shallow and unsafe to jump. Swim into the pool from the bottom first and check the depths so you don't end up finding the shallow spots the hard way. If you explore the "boaters left" side of the creek you can find a cool cave!

Love this trail. It starts off steep as could be but the alpine ridge is absolutely stunning. The final push to the South Summit is 4th class terrain and a fall could end up in disaster. Remember to take your time and turn back if it's past your ability. The true summit is 5th class climbing and should not be attempted unless an experienced climber and roping up would be wise. There isn't much opportunity for water after the first 1.5miles so make sure to pack enough.

Olympus is so stout that I often don't catch my breath till I am back at the car. Such a beautiful view of the city and even some exciting scrambling near the summit. Be warned: there are loads of rattle snakes along this trail in the summer time so keep an eye and ear out for slithery things.

I found this trail shortly after I moved to Salt Lake City and was blown away by the views that the living room has to offer. Head up for sunset on a partly cloudy night and be prepared for amazement. I also recommend bring a trash bag to help clean up some of the mess left behind all the users. It's a great trail but gets way crowded so be sure to practice good LNT!