Winter Sports

Choose from the following to find a site:

• Snowmobiling
• XC Skiing/Snowshoeing

The world-renown powder snow draws millions of visitors to the forest each winter. Nearly 700,000 diverse acres are open to non-motorized winter activities, including 309,000 acres of designated wilderness area.

However, many trails also are open to motorized and non-motorized users alike. While out recreating, a healthy dose of common courtesy will go a long ways to insure everyone has an enjoyable experience.

Before heading out for a winter adventure, check the Utah Avalanche Center and Get to know the snow web pages for important information avalanche conditions, potential hazards, and safety guidelines. Be especially careful on sunny days, where the warm weather and clear sky can lull recreationists into a false sense of security. The sunniest days tend to be most dangerous in the snow-covered backcountry.

Dogs are welcome in many areas on the forest, but are prohibited in certain areas on the Wasatch Front to protect the watershed.

Alpine Ski Resorts

In addition to backcountry snow recreation, the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache is also host to five alpine ski resorts. The resorts located on the National Forest are:

• Alta Ski Area - Located Little Cottonwood Canyon
• Brighton Resort - Located in Big Cottonwood Canyon
• Snowbasin Ski Resort - Located in the mountains just east of Ogden
• Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort - Located in Little Cottonwood Canyon
• Solitude Mountain Resort - Located in Big Cottonwood Canyon

Winter Safety Tips

Be informed about avalanche dangers.  Carry safety equipment such as avalanche beacons, shovels, and probes.  Take an avalanche awareness class.  For the latest avalanche conditions you can go to www.utahavalanchecenter.org, or UACWasatch, #utavy, or call 888-999-4019.

• Call ahead for current conditions
• Make sure your vehicle is in good operating condition and contains an adequate level of fueL and have properly fitting tire chains and know how to install them
• Leave your itinerary with a friend or family member
• Never travel alone and take along your cell phone and a map
• Wear appropriate clothing and footwear
• Always carry extra clothing, food, water, flashlight, first aid kit, matches, and a small shovel
• If you become injured or lost, stay calm and seek shelter from the elements, but do not stray from your planned route.