If, like me, you love hiking in the summer months, you’ll love the recreational sport of snowshoeing in the winter, too. I’ve gone with my family several times; and, we even take along our 7-year-old who climbs right up the mountain with us. Snowshoeing is just like hiking, really, only it’s hiking in the snow. There’s nothing stopping you—except, of course, if there’s no snow.
Here are some great suggestions for trails to try this winter in the Ogden area
Wheatgrass Canyon:
This canyon, located near Causey Dam, is often overlooked and very quiet in the winter. You can rediscover it for yourself all over again.
Directions: Park at the Boy Scout Camp sign at the north side of Causey Reservoir. Cross the wooden bridge over the creek and follow the trail to the left. The first three or four miles are easy going, along a distinct and well-established trail.
Wheeler Creek Trail Network:
This is an uphill, wide track that starts near Pineview Dam. Wheeler is very popular in the summer and fall months for mountain bikers and hikers. This trail and can be short or long, depending on your preference (or when the kids are tired).
Directions: Travel east on 12th Street in Ogden. Follow State Road 39 through Ogden Canyon. The trail is located to the south with a small parking lot just before the turn going over the dam. The trail can also be accessed from the lower Snowbasin Ski Resort parking lot. Park near the silver gate at the far corner of the lower lot.
The South Skyline Trail:
Here on the South Skyline Trail you’ll find less traffic than the Wheeler Creek Trail. Plus, you’ll find yourself on a high ridge.
Directions: From North Ogden, head east on the North Ogden Divide Road. Trailhead is located on the south side of the road next to a stone marker with a small parking lot.
Sardine Peak Trail/Ogden Overlook Trail:
This is a great trail for beginners who also want to see some amazing views of the Ogden Valley. A win-win for everyone!
Directions: Park in the lower parking lot at Snowbasin Resort. Follow the gravel road past the sliver metal gate for 0.75 miles. Follow the road straight ahead when you reach the old campground. Look for an information board next to an old gate. This is the beginning of the trail.
North Fork Park:
Groomed for cross-country skiing, many of the trails in this popular area are accessible for those out snowshoeing as well. It’s full of beautiful country! Rent snowshoes and pay the $3 trail fee at the trailhead yurt, run by nonprofit Ogden Nordic.
Directions:
Take State Road 39 through Ogden Canyon, cross Pineview Dam. Continue on State Road 158 which merges northwest onto State Road 162. Turn west onto 5950 West. Park at the trailhead.
So, now you have a handful of awesome trailheads to take your family and friends snowshoeing. Pick one and try it out! Enjoy getting out this winter and make the most of the colder months.
