Pfeifferhorn Peak

This is a strenuous, but classic hike that contains a mix of shaded forrest and high alpine environments.

Hiking Extreme

Distance: 15 km
Ascent: 1.2 km
Descent: 1.2 km
Duration: 4-5 hrs

Low Point: 2.3 km
High Point: 3.4 km
Gradient: 19˚

This is a 9 mile round trip hike through the heart of the Wasatch mountains. The pinnacle of the outing is the summit of the mighty Pfeifferhorn peak with almost 4,000 feet of elevation gain. The route has it all with wooded and shady old road grades and single track trail through the upper alpine. There are some gorgeous lakes to enjoy along the way and fantastic views of the city from the top of the summit. It's well marked but there are a few exposed sections where you'll need to focus as you scramble along a rocky ridge before reaching the final summit push.

Lower Red Pine Lake, Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah Photo: Andrey Zharkikh

Upper Red Pine Lake, Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah Photo: Andrey Zharkikh

Difficulty

Extreme

Scrambling up mountains and along technical trails with moderate fall exposure. Handholds are necessary to navigate the trail in its entirety, although they are not necessary at all times. Some obstacles can be very large and difficult to navigate, and the grades can often be near-vertical. The challenge of the trail and the steepness of the grade results in very strenuous hiking. Hikes of this difficulty blur the lines between "hiking" and "climbing".

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