Backpacking Wasatch June 2011

[ndub]

I'm looking for backpacking suggestions for a one night trip into the Wasatch Front or anywhere near SLC for a group of beginning backpackers (ages 14 - 18.) Right now, it looks like options are few due to the wintry conditions, but anything that could clear up by the 2nd weekend in June is primarily what I'm aiming for. Any help is greatly appreciated.

[gloo]

How long and steep of a hike are you looking for?

saw some scouts backpacking grandeur peak up mill creek last week. its a pretty good hike considering what's available right now. little over 3 miles up. up near the saddle you'll start to hit a bit of snow but its mostly on the west side. http://www.climb-utah.com/WM/grandeur.htm

You could also do neff's canyon, i got up pretty high the other day and there are some decent areas for a small group of backpackers to camp.

[Scott P]

Grove Creek, Dry Creek or Battle Creek on the west side of Timp are usually good early season.

As mentioned, Grandeur Peak migh be good and has campsites right on the summit where you can watch the city lights.

Ferguson Canyon to the overlook should be good.

There are campsites on Mt. Olympus at the saddle, but it's somewhat steep for a beginner to carry a pack up there. It shouldn't be that bad though.

Malans Basin above Ogden should be good as well.

[ndub]

Thanks for these suggestions. Gloo - I don't have a specific length or elevation gain in mind, but the suggestions so far seem pretty appropriate for some beginning backpackers. I was looking at the grove/battle creek area and was wondering if anybody has been up there lately to see what the conditions are like. Also, has anyone been out to the Diamond Fork area lately? I would also be willing to travel as far as the Nebo loop if anybody has recommendations for that area.

[Dr. Nebz]

Grandeur Peak has a wee bit of snow still left on the summit. But should be good to go other than that. Everything is pretty snowbound otherwise. I would head south, like Spanish Fork Canyon, or Diamond Fork Canyon. Those trails are snow free and it is a bit more remote.