Skiing Adventures USA

Wasatch Backcountry Skiing

Full-Day Group: 1-4 People per Guide From $250/person

Utah’s Wasatch Mountains, just outside of Salt Lake City, are world-renowned for their legendary powder—often called the “Greatest Snow on Earth.” Our private guided backcountry skiing trips put you right in the heart of this playground, where every day is customized to your group’s goals and abilities.

Whether you’re looking to ski lap after lap, discover untouched powder stashes, or build avalanche and touring skills, your guide will design the perfect day. From lift-accessed backcountry laps to tackling Mount Superior’s South Face—the Wasatch’s entry in the 50 Classic Ski Descents of North America—the range offers terrain for every type of skier and rider.

All of our Utah backcountry trips are operated through Wasatch Mountain Guides (WMG), one of Utah’s most trusted guide services. Willie Benegas, IFMGA-certified mountain guide and co-owner of WMG, leads many of these tours alongside a team of highly qualified AMGA-trained guides. With decades of experience exploring these mountains, our guides know where to find the best conditions and will ensure your day is both safe and unforgettable.

With terrain ranging from mellow glades to steep, technical chutes, the Wasatch backcountry has something for everyone. No matter your objective, we’ll tailor the experience to your level, fitness, and time frame—delivering the most memorable ski day of your Salt Lake City trip.

Private Tour Details

Location
Private backcountry tours take place in Big Cottonwood Canyon, Little Cottonwood Canyon, or Millcreek Canyon in Salt Lake City. Expect to be in the field for a full 8-hour day.

Schedule & Meeting Location

Meeting times and locations are flexible and depend on your objectives, preferences, and lodging. The most common meeting time is 8:00 AM at the Park & Ride lots at the mouths of Big or Little Cottonwood Canyon, or directly at your Cottonwood Canyon resort accommodations.

Guide/Instructor

You’ll receive a reminder email with your guide’s contact information prior to the trip. Your guide will reach out to review your skills and goals, discuss weather and equipment considerations, and finalize your meeting time and location.

Transportation & Parking

Transportation is not provided. Please plan to drive yourself and note that most canyon parking lots require a parking fee.

 

Who Can Join

We adapt each day to your needs—BBE and Wasatch Mountain Guides tailor custom guidance to your specific levels, goals, and time frame.

  • Ability level: Intermediate to advanced downhill skiing or riding ability, with good fitness, is required. You should feel confident skiing all blue runs and most black runs at a resort, including ungroomed terrain.
  • Ages 12–16 may join with a parent; 16+ may join independently.
Gear & Rentals
  • Required: Touring skis/boots or splitboard, skins, beacon, shovel, probe.
  • Available rentals: Avalanche kits (beacon/shovel/probe) through us; touring setups via our partner shops in Salt Lake City.
Rates (Full Day – 8 Hours)

Mon–Thu: $495 + $150 each additional skier

  • Group of 2: $323/person
  • Group of 3: $265/person
  • Group of 4: $234/person

Fri–Sun: $525 + $150 each additional skier

  • Group of 2: $338/person
  • Group of 3: $275/person
  • Group of 4: $244/person

👉 Please contact us directly to book groups of 5 or more.

Safety & Risk Management

Backcountry skiing involves inherent risk, but our guides take every measure to manage and mitigate it. All trips are led by AMGA-trained/certified guides, supervised by IFMGA-certified guides. Each day begins with snowpack and avalanche assessments to create a safe, rewarding plan.

Do I need avalanche gear?
Yes. If you don’t own gear, we provide rental kits.

How much hiking is involved?

Anywhere from 2–5 hours, depending on group pace and goals.

Can we focus on education?

Absolutely—many clients use a private day as a mini backcountry course.

Where do we meet?

Location varies depending on conditions—your guide will confirm in advance.

Do you recommend trip insurance?

Yes. We suggest Spot Insurance for activity coverage.

Utah Private Backcountry Ski Guiding

Ski the Wasatch with Wasatch Mountain Guides, co-owned by Willie Benegas, and experience the best private backcountry skiing Salt Lake City has to offer—from secret powder stashes to iconic classics like Mount Superior.

Book Trip
Location:
Utah
Group:
1-4 People per Guide
Duration:
Full-Day
Skill:
Beginner-above
Activities:
Backcountry Skiing and Splitboarding
Pricing

Pricing is a typical estimate, final quote will be provided after receiving your inquiry.

Utah Private Backcountry Ski Guiding

Ski the Wasatch with Wasatch Mountain Guides, co-owned by Willie Benegas, and experience the best private backcountry skiing Salt Lake City has to offer—from secret powder stashes to iconic classics like Mount Superior.