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Winter Hike the Pfeifferhorn

Sandy, Utah

5.0/5
based on 4 reviews

Details

Distance

9 miles

Elevation Gain

3600 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Jacob Moon

Summit one of Utah's most iconic peaks for stunning views of the Wasatch Mountain and Salt Lake Valley. There's also excellent camping near Red Pine Lake.

Rising to a height of 11,326 feet, the Pfeifferhorn is one of the most majestic and iconic peaks in the Wasatch Mountains, and also one of the most popular mountains to hike. During the summer and fall, there is a well beaten trail all the way to the summit, but during the winter and spring, this trail is covered up by snow, thus making a map of the area in indispensable.

This hike begins at the White Pine trailhead and follows up to Red Pine Lake (approx. 3 miles). This section of the trail receives a high volume of snowshoes and skiers, and will likely have a beaten out trail to follow (depending on when the last snow storm came through).

From Lower Red Pine Lake, continue on to Upper Red Pine Lake, and then ascend the mini ridge on the upper head wall to the west. Once reaching the top of the head wall, the Pfeifferhorn will appear in all of her glory, along with numerous peaks in all directions. Follow the ridge to the summit!

Warning: The slopes leading to the summit pass Upper Red Pine Lake are prone to avalanche. A knowledge of avalanche hazards and safety is critical especially during the winter and early spring. Visit here for condition reports.

Summiting in the summer months, check out this adventure: https://www.theoutbound.com/ut...

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Features

Photography
Skiing
Snowshoeing
Hiking
Easy Parking
Food Nearby
Scenic

Winter Hike the Pfeifferhorn Reviews

I just did this yesterday on a perfect blue sky day! We had some of the best views I've seen in the Wasatch from the summit. I would add that crampons were really nice for the ridge going up to the S/SE face, as well as on said face. The snow was like concrete, so we elected to not ski that face down due to the exposure below. One more thing I would mention is do not forget sun screen and sun glasses. I did, as we started out at 4AM, and I tend to forget these items when it's dark out. Oops!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hike to Maybird Lakes (Maybird Gulch)

Ski or Snowboard Pink Pine Ridge

Camp at the Cottonwood Ridgeline

Backcountry Ski White Pine Fork

Summit the Pfeifferhorn

White Pine Lake