Alexander Basin to Gobblers Knob- Millcreek Canyon- July 2003

[Dr. Nebz]

When reading the Hiking The Wasatch book by John Veranth, it says Alexander Basin "Is one of the steepest trails in the Wasatch." He's not kidding. You start on about 50 ft of flat, then it just shoots straight up this draw. You eventually come to the Bowman Fork Junction, then continue to climb up this beautiful basin. It just seems to climb, and climb, not ever really flattening out. We made it to the top of the basin, and decided that we would push for Gobblers Knob. The climb to the saddle is one of the steepest climbs I have ever done. A fall would not turn out pleasant that is for sure. From the saddle you could see all of Big Cottonwood Canyon and Little Cottonwood in the distance. After a few minutes of scrambling from the saddle you are on the summit. I have been on a lot of summits in my lifetime, but this one has a very special feeling. It is marked by the USGS by a geo marker like so many other summits, so you know that you are there if you see it. We spent a lot of time up there, then for the long climb down. It goes pretty fast, but down climbing anything that steep is a workout and balance lesson. And the knees hate it. We made it to the car just by dark, and were all exhausted to say the least. It is a beautiful climb, and was well worth the effort. We did an estimated elevation change of 3086 ft in 3 miles. Yeah, that is steep.

[Wasatch]

West Side of Grandeur is pretty steep. About 3200 ft. in 1.25 miles.

[Dr. Nebz]

West Side of Grandeur is pretty steep. About 3200 ft. in 1.25 miles.

Actually, Granduer from the west is 1.75 miles and 3100 ft of elevation gain. Yes, that is steep.

If you have not done Alexander Basin, give it a go. You will see what I mean.

[Wasatch]

I've done it just to the saddle.

[jbdavies]

I love that hike... well, not the constant up hill, but how green and lush it is. :)

[accadacca]

Excellent photos!