Deseret Peak - 11031'
I had some spare time while on a business trip in Utah. Due to recent snow and a tight deadline, I chose to hike up Deseret Peak - highpoint of the Stansbury Range in Utah and highest point in Tooele County. I figured the trail would allow me to move quickly and mitigate any difficulty if I encountered snow.
After a early departure from my hotel, I arrived at the trailhead just after sunrise. I head quickly up the trail through a gorgeous forest of aspen and pine. I made my first goal -- a saddle at 10000' -- in 1.5 hours. That meant I had gained 1733' per hour over the first section of the hike and was on a great pace to get to the airport on time.
The final 1000' took 40 minutes after a 20 minute break in the sun. The views from the top were great, with the Salt Lake to the north, the barren plains to the west, and the Wasatch range to the east. Nothing like standing 5000 feet over the surrounding countryside!
The hike out went quick, but I did have time to absorb the warm sun, checkout the beautiful falls colors, and watching the numerous deer in the area.
I am happy to report that I made it to the airport in time for departure, even though I found out my plane left an hour before I expected when I arrived. I do apologize to the guy that had to sit next to me on that flight to Boise... luckily the hike was quick and easy and I didn't stink as bad as I could have :-)
Stats
Time: 4 hours, 10 minutes
Distance: 7.2 miles
Elevation gain: 3600'
Class (difficulty): 1
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Photos
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| Aspens near the trailhead. |
A neat basin at around 9000'. Lots of deer here. |
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| View from the trail. |
The east ridge. |
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| Looking northwest from the summit. |
Looking down the north face. |
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| Looking west from the top of Deseret Peak. |
Deseret Peak on the drive out. |
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| Deseret Peak on the drive out again. |
Red trees improve an already neat view. |
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