MOAB SKI FIELD GUIDE
Classic Intermediate Tours — A full day chasing Wasatch powder on skins and turns
An 2-Hour, single-day guided backcountry ski and splitboard tour across Central Wasatch routes, focused on 3,000–5,000 feet of climbing and riding and guided skiing tailored to intermediate riders.
Classic Intermediate Tours — A full day chasing Wasatch powder on skins and turns.
Adventure brief
Classic Intermediate Tours — A full day chasing Wasatch powder on skins and turns
Embark on an 8-hour, single-day backcountry ski tour through Utah’s Central Wasatch with Red River Adventures, following snow and conditions into classic bowls and chutes—from Days Fork and Silver Fork to the Cardiac, White Pine and Red Pine drainage—on routes tailored to the day and your ability.
Utah’s Central Wasatch Range offers some of North America’s finest backcountry skiing, and the Classic Intermediate Tours deliver an unforgettable eight-hour journey through this legendary powder playground. Tailored for intermediate to advanced skiers aged 12 and up, this guided tour navigates iconic terrain like Days Fork, Silver Fork, Cardiac, White Pine, and Red Pine – all celebrated for their accessible approaches and world-renowned snow quality. Situated just a short drive from Salt Lake City, the Central Wasatch is a dual canyon setting where days of deep, dry powder await adventurous travelers.
Launching mainly from Little Cottonwood Canyon, these tours weave through Big Cottonwood Canyon and back, covering 3,000 to 5,000 vertical feet of climbing and skiing. This challenging terrain showcases granite rock faces, dense coniferous forests, and open bowls that reward persistence with silky descents. The area’s geological uniqueness stems from its rugged granite ridges carved during the last Ice Age, creating steep natural chutes perfect for powder enthusiasts.
What separates Classic Intermediate Tours from other backcountry options is its expert guides and adaptability. Routes vary daily, responding to snow conditions and skier preference, ensuring every run capitalizes on fresh snowfall and avalanche-safe zones. Professional guides provide avalanche gear including beacons, shovels, and probes, enhancing safety while educating participants on mountain awareness.
Participants can demo skis or splitboards complete with skins and bindings, though guests must bring their own alpine touring boots or snowboard boots. This flexible setup removes barriers to entry, making the epic beauty of Utah’s backcountry more accessible without sacrificing adventure or safety.
Visitors looking for a base nearby will find Moab, Utah, a perfect gateway city with vibrant outdoor culture and ample amenities. Between runs, adventurers can explore local dining, gear shops, and cultural landmarks, enriching their experience beyond the slopes.
Classic Intermediate Tours shines not only because of its terrain but because it offers an immersive journey into Utah’s natural and cultural heritage. The Central Wasatch was a mineral exploration hotspot during the 19th century, and today it stands as a premier winter playground where history and nature coexist. Conservation efforts by local organizations ensure the fragile alpine ecosystems are protected, promoting sustainable recreation that preserves this world-class skiing for generations.
Every turn on this tour showcases why Utah backcountry skiing is sought after worldwide – ample powder, stunning vistas, and a community-driven focus on safe exploration. Whether seeking to refine skill on varied terrain or chase untouched powder, Classic Intermediate Tours is a standout experience in the heart of the Wasatch.
Route Schematic
Typical route schematic
Stops and rhythm vary by conditions, but the day commonly mixes approaches, uphill laps, and tailored descents across Central Wasatch drainages.
Approach & Skin
Begin with a moderate approach and skinning that starts the day’s climbing — the tour requires commitment to 3,000–5,000 feet of uphill travel over the course of the day.
Powder Descents
Make multiple descents chosen for current snow and avalanche conditions, with runs available from mellow powder pitches to more challenging terrain based on ability.
Lap, Link, or Return
Depending on snow surface and conditions, the group may link multiple laps, move between drainages, or return to the meeting point after completing the planned vertical objective.
This trip requires participants to be fit for sustained uphill travel; routes and itinerary may be adjusted by the guide for safety and avalanche conditions, and participants should meet the minimum age and fitness expectations.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Explore world‑famous Wasatch powder
Skiers and splitboarders spend the day in the Central Wasatch, accessing famed powder runs with relatively short, moderate approaches that have made this area renowned for backcountry skiing.
Serious vertical — 3,000–5,000 feet of climbing & riding
Tours are built around substantial uphill and downhill sessions, with total climbing and riding typically falling in the 3,000–5,000 foot range and options to bang out multiple laps when conditions allow.
Instruction woven into the day
Local professional guides lead the tours, offering route choice based on conditions and client requests while providing tips on technique and efficiency throughout the outing.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
A Classic Intermediate Tour is a full, purposeful day: skin up moderate approaches, punch for a few thousand feet of vert, then pick lines from mellow powder laps to more technical steeps as conditions permit. Routes are selected to chase the best snow across Little Cottonwood, Big Cottonwood and adjacent forks, and the guide adapts the plan to snowpack and your group’s goals.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is an 8‑hour, single‑day guided backcountry ski tour; the operator tailors routes and the day’s flow to snow and client requests.
Most trips meet at 3653 Fort Union Boulevard (Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121); pick‑up may be available (complimentary or paid) depending on location—call the operator to discuss options.
Local professional guides lead the day and provide technique and efficiency tips woven into the outing; route choices are guided by conditions and client preference.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How much experience should I have?
This option is for fit first‑timers or those who have some prior backcountry experience.
What terrain will we ski?
The group can ski terrain that fits your goals as long as avalanche and snowpack conditions allow.
Is instruction included?
Yes — your guide provides tips on technique and efficiency throughout the day.
How many runs will we get?
The number of runs depends on snow surface and avalanche conditions, but total vertical will typically be in the 3,000–5,000 foot range.
Can snowboarders join?
Absolutely — splitboarders are welcome; the program is led by a snowboarder.
Where do we meet?
Most ski trips meet at the base of Big Cottonwood Canyon: 3653 Fort Union Blvd, Cottonwood Heights, UT 84121.
Can I be picked up?
Pick up (complimentary or paid) is a possibility and depends on your location; generally pickups are possible from Cottonwood Heights through both Cottonwood Canyons and nearby ski resorts—call to discuss options.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-15T12:03:53.900Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.