This is a popular trailhead on the way to Alta where a number of hikes begin. One of the best is the journey to White Pine Lake. It’s a moderately steep trail that goes high into the mountains, eventually finding a pristine alpine lake beneath rugged granite peaks. The way is well marked and heavily traveled, but the scenery and surroundings leave no doubt as to why.

Hidden Peak is at the top of Snowbird Resort, and though you could ride the summer tram to get there, it’s more rewarding to use your own legs. The hike begins near Snowbird Center and goes up the thawed-out ski slopes. You’ll walk mostly on a dirt road, but it’s still pretty steep, wandering up through a rocky basin dotted with pines. A final set of switchbacks reach the top where the tram unloads, and The Summit restaurant offers refreshment with a view.

At the very top of Little Cottonwood Canyon is Albion Basin, a verdant alpine bowl surrounded by striking peaks. A myriad of trails lead through the landscape, so you can really take your pick of distance and difficulty. Try the short and sweet hike to Cecret Lake, or go farther to stand atop Sugarloaf Mountain. The various hikes, the displays of summer flowers to fall leaves, and the possibility of seeing a moose are reasons to keep coming back.

Alta and Snowbird sit between some of the most impressive peaks in the Wasatch. One that can’t be missed is Mount Superior––a beast of a mountain towering opposite the ski resorts. It can be climbed in the summer, however, by those who are fit and unafraid of steep hiking on loose rocks. Beginning near Alta Lodge, the rigorous journey takes a trail to a pass, then ascends an airy ridgeline to Superior's summit.

The trail to Twin Lakes Pass is a short hike up a road grade that ends with enjoyable views. You’ll look over Alta resort and Little Cottonwood Canyon to the west, with a vista of two lakes plus Brighton resort to the east. To get there, park at the top of the paved road near Snowpine Lodge, then walk up the dirt road through a valley called Grizzly Gulch. Forest and meadows lead up to the pass, with great views the whole way. Before you know it you’ll be at the top!