Wasatch Alpine Traverses
Explore the Wasatch in its most breathtaking season
Full Day – 8 Hours Group: 1–3 standard (contact us for custom groups) From $200 per Person
Benegas Brothers Expeditions – in partnership with Wasatch Mountain Guides
The Wasatch Mountains are best known for legendary powder skiing, but in summer and fall these rugged peaks transform into an alpine paradise. Our Wasatch Alpine Traverses are designed to showcase the Wasatch at its most spectacular: high ridgelines, airy scrambles, wildflower basins, and sweeping views that stretch from the Great Salt Lake to the Uinta Mountains.
Whether you’re after a classic alpine scramble or a fast-and-light trail running traverse, our guides will craft the perfect route to match your goals. Every trip is private, fully customized, and operated by Wasatch Mountain Guides, co-owned by IFMGA-certified guide Willie Benegas.
At a Glance
- Season: Late June – October
- Difficulty: Moderate to Hard (tailored to ability)
- Vertical: 2,000–5,000+ ft
- Distance: 6–15 miles (customizable)
- Duration: 6–10 hours
- Meeting Time: 7:00 AM (flexible)
- Meeting Location: Cottonwood Canyon Park & Ride or trailhead
- Minimum Age: 14+ (under 18 with parent)
- Group Size: 1–3 standard (contact us for custom groups)
Option 1: Alpine Scramble Traverse
For hikers and mountaineers ready to link iconic Wasatch summits in one big day. Traverse ridgelines such as Mount Superior to Monte Cristo, or tackle the rugged summits of Dromedary and the Twin Peaks. Expect hands-on scrambling (3rd–4th class), exposed ridgelines, and rope protection where needed.
Who It’s For
- Strong hikers or aspiring alpinists
- Comfortable with exposure and long days in the mountains
- Looking for a guided alpine objective that blends hiking and climbing
Gear
- Approach shoes or lightweight boots
- Helmet (provided if needed)
- Harness & light climbing kit (provided if required)
- Day pack, food, water, layers
Option 2: Trail Running Traverse
For runners who want to push their endurance in a high-alpine environment. These traverses cover flowy singletrack, rugged ridges, and big vertical gain—customized to your pace and goals. Classic options include sections of the Wasatch Crest, Superior Ridge, or custom point-to-point linkups.
This program is supervised by Erik Fullmer, an experienced mountain runner and co-owner of Wasatch Mountain Guides, ensuring routes are tailored for trail running safety, pacing, and efficiency.
Who It’s For
- Intermediate to advanced trail runners
- Comfortable with long mountain runs (10–20 miles, 2,000–5,000+ ft vert)
- Looking for a guided mountain challenge with technical terrain
Gear
- Trail running shoes
- Hydration vest/pack
- Light layers, food, water
Safety & Risk Management
Alpine terrain involves inherent risks—exposed ridgelines, steep scrambling, variable weather. All trips are guided by AMGA-trained and IFMGA-certified professionals. Alpine objectives use helmets and ropes where appropriate, while trail running traverses are supervised with pacing, hydration, and safety protocols in mind.
FAQs
Do I need climbing experience?
Not necessarily. Many alpine traverses are scrambles (3rd–4th class) where ropes may be used for security.
What fitness level is required?
- Alpine Scramble: Fit hikers ready for 6–10 hours with 2,000–5,000+ ft gain.
- Trail Running: Intermediate to advanced runners used to long mountain outings.
Can I bring my teenager?
Yes. Ages 14–17 may join with a parent present.
What happens if the weather is bad?
We’ll adapt the route or reschedule—safety always comes first.
Booking Notes
Wasatch Alpine Traverses are offered on the Benegas Brothers Expeditions platform and operated by Wasatch Mountain Guides. Clients will make payment directly to WMG and sign the WMG release form prior to the trip. BBE acts as the sales and marketing partner for these programs.
Explore the Wasatch in its most breathtaking season with Wasatch Alpine Traverses, operated by Wasatch Mountain Guides and offered through Benegas Brothers Expeditions. Guided by IFMGA-certified professionals, these traverses blend world-class expertise with the rugged beauty of Utah’s mountains.
Our Wasatch Alpine Traverses are designed to showcase the Wasatch at its most spectacular:
High ridgelines, airy scrambles, wildflower basins, and sweeping views that stretch from the Great Salt Lake to the Uinta Mountains.
Late June – October
Pricing
Pricing is a typical estimate, final quote will be provided after receiving your inquiry.
Our Wasatch Alpine Traverses are designed to showcase the Wasatch at its most spectacular:
High ridgelines, airy scrambles, wildflower basins, and sweeping views that stretch from the Great Salt Lake to the Uinta Mountains.
1 Person:
$450
2 People:
$250 each
3 People:
$200 each
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