Get ready for an exciting adventure! This spring, a long-awaited backcountry trail will finally open, connecting Summit and Wasatch counties in a groundbreaking way.
The Trail's Journey: A Decade-Long Story
The Wasatch Trails Foundation, a dedicated nonprofit, has been tirelessly advocating for this trail for over a decade. And now, their perseverance is about to pay off.
This five-mile backcountry trail, a collaborative effort with the Mountain Trails Foundation, will be the first official link between the two county systems. It's a testament to the power of community support and long-term vision.
But here's where it gets controversial... The trail's construction faced numerous challenges, including wildlife mitigation areas and the politically charged atmosphere of Park City. And let's not forget the daunting task of building on the steep slopes of Tall T peak, which stands at a towering 9,360 feet.
Lora Anthony, Executive Director of Mountain Trails Foundation, emphasizes the significance of this project: "The WOW trails are more than just a network; they're a symbol of what can be achieved when organizations work together over the long haul."
The trail's origins can be traced back over a decade ago to Rick Fournier, a former trails manager, and Scott House, the current board president of Wasatch Trails Foundation. House expresses his excitement, saying, "It's a testament to our commitment to balancing wilderness protection with accessible trails."
A Trail for All: Multi-Use and Sustainable
This trail is designed for everyone, featuring a multi-use, bi-directional connector. It includes an intermediate downhill mountain bike trail, a climb for mountain bikers, and a multi-use trail. For hikers, there's the Boulder Dash, a trail exclusively for them.
The trail's construction was funded by various grants, including those from the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation and the Wasatch County Trails, Arts, and Parks Tax. Mountain Trails Foundation took on the role of trail contractor, beginning construction in the spring of 2024.
Mia Yue, Executive Director of Wasatch Trails Foundation, shares her relief and gratitude: "There were times when I thought this trail would never see the light of day. It's a credit to our board's support and the unwavering commitment of our partners at Mountain Trails Foundation."
So, what do you think? Are you excited for this new trail? Do you think it will live up to the hype? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
