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A man skis past an experts only sign
Two people backcountry skiing on a grey day
A man skis through deep powder
A man skis down a steep mountain
A man in a red jacket skis in powder

Lift Access Backcountry Skiing and Riding

Trip Overview

If you want to maximize skiing and minimize travel, this is your ticket. By using resort lifts in Little or Big Cottonwood Canyon, we can quickly gain access to the heart of the Wasatch backcountry and great snow. Using the lifts cuts out the commute and puts you in the skiing almost immediately.  Perfect for anyone who wants to use their energy on skiing powder rather than long approaches. Think of it as a shortcut to the good stuff—not sidecountry laps, but genuine backcountry adventure.

Highlights

Guided Lift Access Ski & Board Touring

  • Fast access to backcountry terrain via lifts
  • Maximize vertical, minimize approach
  • Use your Ikon or season pass
  • Add one ride ticket for $25
  • Explore beyond Alta, Brighton & Solitude
  • Guided by experts who live and love the Wasatch

Details

Difficulty: Easy-Hard | Vert. varies
Days: 6 Hours
Minimum Age: 10
Venues: Big & Little Cottonwood Canyons
Meets: 8:00 AM
Dates: December to March
Ticket options: Pricing does not include lift ticket. Your Ikon or Epic pass can be used. Brighton one ride passes are $25 and Alta access through RRA are options. Call for specifics

Reviews

Fantastic experience. With ever changing weather and snow conditions and group stamina our full day in the backcountry was perfectly executed with every single member of our party of five of varying skill level having a blast. Plan to do it again next year. Highly recommend. We did the lift assist option which we feel got us more runs without skimping on the climbing in skins.

Neil B.

March 2018

Trip Advisor

Awesome experience with John in the backcountry. Perfect mix of fun runs and learning experiences. Definitely a day I won’t forget !

Christine P.

March 2023

Google Reviews

Sam was a fantastic guide and instructor. Very skilled at building our skills in the backcountry!

David J.

March 2024

Google Reviews

My wife and I went with Carl. Incredible backcountry experience!! Powder powder powder.

Really helped us get some back country experience and educate us on a path forward for newbies to be able to split board independently. He is an incredible guide with many years experience and perhaps more importantly a really cool guy.

Rob C.

February 2022

Google Reviews

Fun trip guides were great. Beautiful scenery.

Marc T.

January 2025

Google Reviews

Book Today

Lift Access Backcountry Skiing and Riding

  • From $225
  • 8 Hours
  • Salt Lake City, Utah

ADDITIONAL INFO

This trip is for skiers and riders who want to get right to the good stuff, maximize time in ski terrain, and minimize the approach.

  • Skiing trips meet at the base of Big Cottonwood Canyon, 3653 Fort Union Blvd, 84121
  • Guests are responsible for transportation to meet-up location.
  • Hotel or local pick-up/drop-off may be arranged depending on your location (complimentary or fee-based). Please inquire at the time of booking.
  • At the end of all trips, we will return you to your starting location.
  • Guide gratuities are customary.

Red River Adventures will provide if needed:

  • Beacon
  • Probe
  • Shovel
  • Pack
  • Poles
  • Alpine Touring Ski or Split-board and skins to match (Split boards are soft-boot compatable)
  • Ski touring boots

 

What you should pack:

  • Shell – Jacket/pants (soft shell or Gore-tex little to no insulation)
  • Insulating layer – Down or synthetic puffy coat
  • Mid Layer – Synthetic or wool zip shirt
  • Base layers – Synthetic, wool or silk bottom, underwear and top
  • 2 pairs of gloves
  • Hat, beanie
  • Buff
  • Wool or synthetic ski socks
  • Helmet & googles
  • Ball cap & sunglasses
  • Bottle/thermos for hot tea
  • Sunscreen
  • Handwarmers/toe warmers

FAQs

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