Guardsman Pass Snowshoe

Guardsman Pass is a challenging snowshoe hike with killer views that always take my breath away.  Could be my breath was taken away by the very steep climb to the top of the pass, but the views are really stunning.  I wish my camera could capture what my eyes see.  Definitely save this hike for a sunny day!  This was my third time snowshoeing to Guardsman Pass and we have climbed to the overlook three different ways.  The Japanese are fond of saying that there is more than one way to climb to the top of Mt Fuji and the same is true for Guardsman Pass Overlook.

The state road known as Guardsman Pass takes you from Big Cottonwood canyon over the mountain pass into either Heber Valley or Park City.  In winter this road is one of the few places where snowmobiles are allowed to traverse the roads.  But it is also a great snowshoe trail and the mountain is big enough for all to enjoy!  The snowshoe route is approximately 3 miles roundtrip and took slightly more than 3 hours total for us to snowshoe to the pass and back.  You will follow the snowmobile road for about 3/4 mile then veer to the right from the state road and head into the forest of pines -- BEAUTIFUL! 

At this point there is a sign warning snowmobilers to stay on the state road, but it is obvious that many ignore the sign.  The terrain gets pretty steep from here to the top of the pass and it is helpful to follow snowmobile tracks as much as possible. Be prepared for a very good workout on this hike.  Also as a side note, I would avoid this hike on the weekends when the snowmobiles are out and about.  The noise and fumes would diminish the pleasure of hiking.

The snow was almost blinding bright today.

 

Final push to Guardsman Pass Overlook

View of Heber Valley that will take your breath away!

We always make one more push up a steep incline to visit a spooky old tree.  The trick to making this climb is counting steps - 25 steps, rest, 30 steps, rest and so forth until you finally reach the top.  Works like a charm!!

Spooky Old Tree

 More great mountain views on the way down from Guardsman Pass.

Also on the way down I came across this shelter in the middle of the woods.  What do you think made the markings on the tree?  

Mr. Snowman enjoying the sun.

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******Miles hiked tally

beginning March 22, 2013
Beginning of this Blog

229.6