Utah’s Wasatch Mountains, just outside Salt Lake City, are globally renowned for offering some of the most exceptional backcountry skiing experiences. Famous for boasting “The Greatest Snow on Earth,” this region is a haven for powder enthusiasts.
Imagine yourself immersed in the pristine wilderness, carving through untouched snow, guided by experts who know every hidden gem of these majestic canyons. We specialize in guided Utah backcountry ski tours within Big Cottonwood and Little Cottonwood Canyons, designed to lead you to the most coveted powder stashes that these world-class destinations have to offer. From easily accessible lift-assisted backcountry touring to challenging descents in areas like the “Chuting Gallery,” our experienced Utah ski guides are dedicated to crafting your most memorable day on the slopes.
Our team comprises seasoned split board and ski guides, each possessing unparalleled expertise in navigating this exhilarating terrain. Red River Adventures’s Wasatch backcountry ski guides have accumulated more experience in this area than virtually anyone. They are adept at locating the prime snow conditions and committed to ensuring you experience the pinnacle of Utah backcountry skiing, splitboarding, and snowboarding that the Wasatch Mountains proudly offer.
We cater to all skill levels and terrain preferences! Our difficulty ratings are structured around the vertical ascent involved in each day’s tour. However, the downhill terrain can be tailored to beginner, intermediate, or advanced skiers across all our tour options. It’s entirely possible to enjoy a beginner-level touring day that still grants access to exhilarating advanced slopes.
Enhance your anticipation by watching our video showcasing lift-accessed skiing at Brighton Resort:
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Explore Utah Backcountry Skiing with Expert Guides in the Cottonwood Canyons
Classic Introductory Utah Backcountry Touring Ski Package
If you’re new to the unparalleled skiing experience within the Wasatch Mountains, our classic backcountry ski touring in Utah package is the perfect introduction. It’s designed to elevate you to breathtaking mountain vistas with minimal approach time. These guided Utah ski tours are conducted in either Little or Big Cottonwood Canyons, strategically chosen based on optimal snow conditions and the most promising skiing locations.
These ski tours are ideally suited for those venturing into backcountry touring for the first time. We provide comprehensive instruction and valuable tips on equipment usage and essential skinning techniques as needed. Expect gentle, rolling terrain that accommodates a broad spectrum of abilities, slopes carefully selected for low avalanche risk, and, with luck, your first taste of Utah’s legendary powder. These tours typically involve approximately 1,500 – 3,000 feet of climbing and exhilarating riding.
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- Difficulty – Easy | 1,500 to 2,500 vert.
- Days – 6 hours
- Minimum age – 10
- Venues – Big & Little Cottonwood Canyons
- Meets – 8:00 AM
- Dates – December to March
- 1 Person $450 | 2 People $275 each | 3 People $200 each
Check availability and Book online now!
Classic Intermediate Skiing Tours
Locations such as Days Fork, Silver Fork, Cardiac, White Pine & Red Pine have solidified Utah’s reputation as a world-class backcountry skiing destination. Their appeal lies in the relatively short, moderate approaches that lead to exceptional powder terrain.
Specific tour itineraries are adaptable, depending on current conditions and client preferences. However, the core focus remains on immersing you in the heart of the Central Wasatch and venturing to areas with the best snow quality. Many of these tours begin in Little Cottonwood Canyon, transition into skiing down into Big Cottonwood, and ultimately loop back up and over into Little Cottonwood again. These intermediate tours generally cover 3,000 to 5,000 feet of climbing and rewarding riding.
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- Difficulty – Moderate to Hard | 3,000 to 5,000 Vert.
- Days – 1
- Minimum age – 12
- Venues – Big & Little Cottonwood Canyons
- Meets – 7:30 AM
- Dates – December to March
- 1 Person $450 | 2 People $275 each | 3 People $200 each
Check availability and Book online now!
Classic Advanced Skiing Tours
A defining characteristic of ski touring in the Wasatch Mountains is the remarkable ability to seamlessly connect multiple peaks, drainages, and diverse slopes within a single day. Our Advanced Tours are meticulously designed to maximize terrain variety and relentlessly seek out the very best skiing conditions available on any given day.
Potential itineraries might include navigating a thrilling tree circuit during a snowstorm or scaling majestic ridgelines and conquering steep slopes when conditions are favorable. Given that this Guided Utah Backcountry ski tour demands robust physical stamina and proficient skinning technique, client approval is required. This can be achieved through prior experience with Red River Adventures or direct assessment by the guide. Expect to ascend and descend approximately 5,000 to 8,000 feet on these challenging tours.
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- Difficulty – Hard | 5,000 to 8,000 Vert.
- Days – 1
- Minimum age – 12
- Venues – Big & Little Cottonwood Canyons
- Meets – 7:30 AM
- Dates – December to March
- 1 Person $500 | 2 People $300 | 3 People $250
Check availability and Book online now!
Lift Access Backcountry Skiing and Riding
Some of the most exhilarating backcountry skiing and riding in the Wasatch is conveniently located just beyond the boundaries of our renowned ski resorts. Alta and Brighton, our preferred resort partners, offer swift access to premier high mountain terrain and maintain open boundary policies. This unique advantage allows us to quickly and effortlessly reach higher elevations and the best snow conditions in the Wasatch Mountains, regardless of weather patterns. While Park City and Solitude also provide access, gate closures by ski patrol can sometimes restrict entry. Regardless of the chosen resort, utilizing lifts conserves your energy, allowing you to focus on maximizing ski runs rather than lengthy uphill approaches.
We are passionate about this touring option and possess the expertise to guide you to untouched powder. Venturing beyond resort boundaries is not advisable for those without the necessary skills and equipment. Allow us to expertly guide you through this exceptional terrain, promising a day that will be etched in your memory.
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- Difficulty – Easy-Hard | Vert. varies
- Days – 6 Hours
- Minimum age – 10
- Venues – Big & Little Cottonwood Canyons
- Meets – 8:00 AM
- Dates – December to March
- 1 Person $450 | 2 People $275 each | 3 People $200 each
- Pricing does not include lift ticket
- Ticket options – use your Ikon or Epic pass. Brighton one ride passes $25 and Alta access through RRA are options. Call for specifics
Check availability and Book online now!
Guided Utah Backcountry Skiing Photo Gallery
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Reviews
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Guided Backcountry Ski Touring FAQ
What is Backcountry Skiing?
Backcountry skiing encompasses any skiing activity that occurs outside of marked and patrolled resort areas. Unlike ski resorts, which feature groomed trails and managed slopes, backcountry skiing takes place in entirely natural, ungroomed terrain. This offers a unique opportunity to experience untouched powder, witness pristine backcountry landscapes unaltered by human intervention, and potentially encounter wildlife in their natural habitat.
How Fit Do I Need To Be for Skiing Tours?
A moderate level of fitness is recommended for backcountry skiing. The advantage is that our trips are designed with varying difficulty levels to accommodate different fitness capabilities. For those seeking a high-intensity experience, our advanced backcountry ski adventures demand excellent physical conditioning. Conversely, we also offer beginner-friendly trips ideal for those newer to the sport or with lower fitness levels.
Do We Learn About Avalanche Safety and Beacon Use?
Absolutely! Safety is our paramount concern. Backcountry skiing inherently exposes you to the most exceptional powder conditions these canyons offer, but it also necessitates careful consideration of avalanche risks. We are committed to teaching you how to manage these risks effectively, including strategies for avalanche avoidance. Prior to every tour, we meticulously take all necessary precautions to ensure your safety. This includes thorough weather condition assessments, comprehensive safety briefings, and expert guidance throughout your backcountry experience in a safe and enjoyable manner.
I’m New To Backcountry Skiing – Is That Ok?
Certainly! Our introductory tours are specifically designed to provide a welcoming and accessible entry point into backcountry skiing. If you’re new to this exhilarating sport, we’re dedicated to working with you to ensure a fantastic and rewarding experience.
Where to Backcountry Ski in Utah?
If you’re searching for prime backcountry skiing locations in Utah, consider entrusting our experienced guides to lead you on a ski tour of the breathtaking Wasatch Mountains. We provide a diverse range of trip options tailored to accommodate all skill levels. Our offerings include introductory tours in the Cottonwood Canyons, intermediate tours in renowned areas like Days Fork, Silver Fork, Cardiac, and White Pine, and even advanced tours focused on exploring diverse and challenging terrain. If you’re ready to embark on a guided backcountry ski tour, contact us today! We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to assist you in planning your next unforgettable backcountry skiing adventure!
Online Reviews – 5 Stars
Why Choose RRA? – 20 Years of Excellence! Since our inception in 2003, beginning with rafting expeditions, we have expanded our expertise to encompass rock and ice climbing, canyoneering, guided ski touring, travel adventures, and outdoor education. We have proudly hosted over 85,000 guests and accumulated over 110,000 days in the field! This dedication to quality and exceptional experiences has earned us consistent 5-star rankings across all major online review platforms. Whether on land or water, our clients consistently praise the caliber of our guides, their extensive knowledge, their effective teaching abilities, and, most importantly, the sheer fun they bring to every adventure. We believe our past guest testimonials speak volumes and simplify your decision! Back to top
Your Safety is our number #1 concern
Since embarking on this journey in 2003, we have safely guided over 85,000 individuals, both young and adult, and accumulated over 100,000 days of experience in rafting, climbing, canyoneering, and skiing in Utah and across the globe. At Red River Adventures, all our guides are, at minimum, state-licensed, fully insured, and certified in first aid and CPR. Many of our river guides hold advanced certifications in swift water rescue and whitewater instruction. While not all, a significant number of our rock, ski, and canyoneering guides hold AMGA certifications relevant to the terrain they guide. Back to top
Quality Equipment
Utilizing top-tier equipment is paramount for ensuring exceptional trip experiences. We are proud to be a recognized “Preferred Guide Partner” of Black Diamond Equipment. Red River Adventures maintains a rigorous equipment replacement schedule, ensuring that all gear essential for your safety and enjoyment is consistently in peak condition. Back to top
Reputation
Red River Adventures has cultivated a strong reputation as a professionally managed, top-quality guide service. We operate as a close-knit, family-run business. Once you experience an adventure with RRA, we are confident you’ll return for more. Back to top
Do I need a reservation
YES! To secure your spot on your preferred trip, we strongly recommend making reservations, particularly during peak seasons, holidays, and weekends. To maintain the high-quality trip experiences we are known for, we intentionally limit the number of participants on our tours, and they often fill up quickly. We encourage you to make a reservation as soon as you have a general timeframe in mind for your ski or climbing adventure to avoid disappointment. Feel free to contact us at 1-877-259-4046 or via email for reservation inquiries at any time. Back to top
About Age Limitations
Age limitations are established for each of our trips to align with industry best practices and our insurance requirements. In certain instances, the published age is a guideline, and younger participants may be permitted. For trips offering youth rate pricing, our guidelines are as follows: Youth Rate = 15 years and younger! Adults = 16 years and older! Some trips are priced per person, regardless of age. Back to top
Which Trip to Choose
We are delighted to offer such a diverse array of trip options. However, we understand that this variety can sometimes be overwhelming. We are here to assist you as a valuable resource and are eager to help you select the ideal trip that perfectly suits you and your group. Please don’t hesitate to call or email us with any questions you may have; we are happy to help. Often, a brief conversation with one of our knowledgeable staff members can clarify the best choice for your adventure. Back to top
What to Bring
Red River Adventures strives to make your trip experience as seamless and convenient as possible! We will clearly outline what equipment and provisions we will supply and inform you of what you will need to bring. Generally, all essential group equipment required for participation in our trips is included. Please NOTE! Skis, ski boots, poles, ice climbing boots, and personal clothing are NOT included in the trip cost. However, rental options are available, and RRA will gladly assist you in reserving any necessary gear. We will provide trip-specific packing lists to ensure you bring all the right items for your adventure. Back to top
What Risks Are Involved
Red River Adventures maintains an impeccable safety record. We personally and rigorously screen and train our employees annually. Our climbing, skiing, and canyoneering guides are highly trained, and while not all, many hold AMGA training or certifications relevant to the terrain they guide. Our trips take place in rugged, remote “wilderness” environments. Participants should be in generally good health to participate. Back to top
Charter and Group Rates
Red River Adventures offers a group rate discount of 10% for groups of 10 or more participants. Additional rate reductions may be available for school, club, church, or special-interest groups on select trips. We are pleased to customize trip lengths and itineraries whenever feasible. Please contact us for assistance in arranging your charter trip or for detailed group rate information. Back to top
What To Pack
Red River Adventures will provide:
- Beacon
- Probe
- Shovel
- Pack
For technical excursions requiring ice axes and crampons, these will also be provided. Full AT (Alpine Touring) setup rentals are available through our partnership with Black Diamond Equipment. RRA will assist in coordinating rentals in advance.
Ski Touring (recommended)
- Shell – Jacket/pants (soft shell or GORE-TEX, minimal to no insulation)
- Insulating layer – Down or synthetic puffy coat
- Mid Layer – Synthetic or wool zip shirt
- Base layers: Synthetic, wool, or silk bottoms, underwear, and top
- 2 pairs of gloves
- Hat, beanie
- Buff (neck gaiter)
- Wool or synthetic ski socks
- Helmet & Googles
- Ball cap & Sunglasses
- Bottle/thermos for hot tea
- Sunscreen
- Hand warmers/Toe warmers
General
We are always available to address any questions you may have. A comprehensive packing list will be emailed to you prior to your scheduled trip.
Reservations
Option #1 – The majority of our Adventures can be booked directly by clicking the “Book Now” button associated with your desired trip.
Option #2 – For trips that do not have an online calendar booking option, please Call 1-435-259-4046 or Email us through our Contact Page
Reservations are HIGHLY recommended! Many dates sell out well in advance! A refundable deposit is required to guarantee your reservation.
Cancellations
Full & Half Day Trips
- A 50% deposit is required at the time of booking.
- The remaining balance is due and will be charged 7 days prior to your departure date.
- Cancellations or changes made 7 days or more prior to departure are FREE of charge!
- Cancellations, partial or full, made within 7 days of departure are non-refundable and cannot be rescheduled.
Full & Half day – Large Group (14 or more)
- A 50% deposit is required at the time of booking.
- The remaining balance is due and will be charged 14 days prior to your departure date.
- Cancellations or changes made 14 days or more prior to departure are FREE of charge!
- Cancellations, partial or full, made within 14 days of departure are non-refundable and cannot be rescheduled.
Clinics, Courses, and Exams
- A 50% deposit is required at the time of booking.
- The remaining balance is due and will be charged 30 days prior to your departure date.
- Cancellations or changes made 30 days or more prior to departure are FREE of charge!
- Cancellations, partial or full, made within 30 days of departure are non-refundable and cannot be rescheduled.
International trips
- A refundable deposit of 10% is required to secure your booking.
- 120 days prior to departure – 50% of the total trip cost is due and will be charged to the card on file.
- 60 days prior to departure – 100% of the total trip cost is due and will be charged to the card on file.
- Cancellations made 60 days or more prior to departure are FREE. A full refund will be issued.
- Cancellations, partial or full, made within 60 days of departure are non-refundable and cannot be rescheduled.
Europe
- A non-refundable deposit of 25% is required to secure your booking.
- 90 days prior to departure – The remaining balance is due and will be charged to the card on file.
- Cancellations, partial or full, made within 90 days of departure are non-refundable and cannot be rescheduled.
Please Note: RRA recommends you insure your trip!
We HIGHLY recommend purchasing comprehensive trip insurance. We suggest using Tin Leg or a similar reputable provider to insure your trip, course, or clinic if you are not already protected by your airline, credit card, or another third-party insurance. Investing in travel insurance, regardless of trip duration or scale, safeguards you against potential financial loss in the event of unforeseen or last-minute changes in circumstances.
Cancellations or changes for ANY reason, including Covid-19, within our established cancellation windows are non-refundable and cannot be rescheduled. Please strongly consider protecting your investment by insuring your purchase!
General
RRA reserves the right to cancel any trip due to weather conditions, insufficient bookings, or any other circumstances beyond our direct control at any time. In such cases, RRA will make every reasonable effort to reschedule your booking to an alternative date. For bookings that cannot be rescheduled or are cancelled by RRA, a full refund will be provided.
Weather
Weather conditions are an inherent aspect of the dynamic outdoor environments in which we operate. You may encounter conditions that you personally deem less than ideal. If we determine that conditions are still suitable and safe for the booked activity, and you choose to cancel or discontinue your trip based on your personal preference, we will, when practically feasible, conclude the trip at your request without issuing a refund. If conditions arise that RRA deems unsafe or unsuitable for continuation, we reserve the right to modify the planned itinerary. This may include, but is not limited to, shortening the route or overall trip duration, changing the venue location, or cancelling the remaining portion of your trip. If cancellation occurs when the trip is less than half completed, we will charge 50% of the total trip fee. If the trip is between half completed and fully completed, the full trip fee will be charged.
Alcohol
Full and 1/2 Day Raft Trips: The consumption of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited before or during rafting trips. No refunds will be issued to individuals found to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs prior to a scheduled trip. Climbing/Canyoneering trips: Alcohol or drugs are also strictly prohibited before or during climbing and canyoneering trips.
