Introduction
The Wasatch Mountains are the product of 20 million years of geologic faulting, volcanic activity, and glaciation. Within the thousands of miles of trail there are several lakes, rivers, and peaks which include thirteen summits over 11,000 feet and nineteen over 10,000 feet. During the winter months the Wasatch Mountains are steadily carpeted with mounds of dry powder; perfect for snowshoeing and backcountry skiing.
Hiking has many benefits: burning calories to achieve weight loss, prevention of osteoporosis by improving bone density, decreases blood pressure by dilating the arteries, taking some of the stress off of the heart and increasing levels of HDL, the “good cholesterol”, you will get an anabolic exercise which will tone and shape your body. There are mental benefits along with the physical; it is therapeutic to be outdoors in the existence of Mother Nature. You will feel your worries dissolve away as you inhale the fresh air and infuse your daily dose of vitamin D. I have personally hiked, mapped and photographed all of the hikes listed; some hiking stats may vary due to personal endurance and the constant changes of route.