Hike and Scramble Mount Superior

This is an intermediate to advanced hike. Scrambling up the ridge is more difficult but can be done by anyone with patience and a few maneuvering skills. It is best climbed in the summer months when the ridge is free of snow. However, it makes for a good winter climb for more technical experienced climbers.

The traditional route to Mount Superior starts at the very back of Little Cottonwood Canyon. It is roughly 5 miles round trip and should take anywhere between 3 to 5 hours. The trailhead starts at the north end or Alta Ski resort, on the north side of the road. There is a paved road heading north past a church and city offices. You can put in the exact starting point on Google Maps, Michigan City Rd Alta, UT 84092 (40.590102, -111.637472).

There is usually plenty of parking right at the start of the trailhead. Follow this road through two switchback until you reach the junction. Take the junction headed north toward Cardiff Pass (trail is not marked). Follow this trail all the way until you reach Cardiff Pass where you will have an awesome view of Alta to the south, and a view of Mineral Fork Basin to the north. Head west along the trail over to Mount Superior. The trail can be spotty in areas especially when you get to the rocky surface of Mount Superior. Scramble along the rocky ridge to find your way to the top of Superior at 11,130 ft.

Mount Superior is amazing because you get the thrill of one of the higher peaks on the Wasatch Range without having to put in as much work and miles. Rarely will you find people at the top as well. You will have the peak entirely to yourself along with a few mountain goats of coarse! You get a great view of all the surrounding peaks, parts of the valley, and the ski resorts on the other side of the canyon!

There are plenty of places to grab a drink or a bite to eat afterward. Since you are just minutes away from both Alta and Snowbird ski resorts, check both of them out. They both have restaurants and bars.