
The “Wasatch 7” Peaks are the seven major peaks that line Utah Valley. They are all challenging peaks that require a full day of hiking – some with route finding, some with a perfect trail. Most of these peaks also have a lot of elevation gain, and therefore are not for the beginner hiker. Because the Wasatch 7 Peaks are all over 10,000 ft, they are typically only accessible in summer months, when the dirt roads are open, and the trails are free of snow – this only leaves a few months to summit all 7 peaks. Most people take a few years to complete all summits – others have completed them in one summer. No matter how much time you have to dedicate to completing all of them, they surely live up to Utah’s motto – “Life Elevated!”
Provo Peak (11,068 ft) is one of the higher peaks in the Wasatch and also one of the shortest but steepest in the area. The trail to the summit is only 1.5 miles but gains 2,700 ft! The views from the summit are amazing, as you get 360 degree views of Utah County, and on a clear day into SLC County and major peaks north. It’s rare that such a massive peak gets less attention that its popular neighbor hikes like Squaw Peak and The Y Trail, but it’s the case here. While there is a well defined trail to the summit, Provo Peak sees way less traffic compared to neighboring trails/summits.
Mt. Nebo (11,929 ft) is the highest peak in the Wasatch Mountains. and Utah County. Mt. Nebo actually has two summits, the north and south, with the North being the higher of the two. This is a popular hike, so the trail is well maintained and easy to follow. Around 9,000 ft a bench trail runs level North to South, as it reaches Wolf Pass. From there, the trail steadily climbs to a false summit, before reaching the ridge that leads to the true summit. This is a strenuous, yet very rewarding hike, as you can see for several miles around.
Charlie, my Golden Lab, has summited 5 out of 7 “Wasatch 7” Peaks with me. The two peaks he did not do with me were Lone Peak (dogs are not allowed) and Cascade Mountain (I knew there would be too much scrambling, and a long, hot day for him). He says his favorite part about bagging peaks is sniffing out new trails, pooping new places, running around off leash in the backcountry, eating snacks that fall on the trail, getting people to throw sticks for him, and being Top Doggie in the outdoor community.
Also check out…
The 6 Steepest Hikes in the Wasatch!
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