Spring Newsletter

While you might have removed the batteries from your beacon and switched to moving via dirt, rock, or water, Wasatch Backcountry Alliance is as active as ever—advocating for access, protecting parking, and working behind the scenes to make sure your favorite winter zones remain accessible and undeveloped.

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Parking & Access Advocacy
Even in the off-season we’re hard at work representing the backcountry community. We’re closely tracking Solitude’s parking proposal and we will be meeting with UDOT to learn more about upcoming signage and enforcement changes in the Cottonwood Canyons. Our goal with UDOT is clearer rules that still support backcountry access, appropriate signage, and better communication between the agencies (including UPD parking enforcement), and trailhead plowing. In good news, Alta had proposed eliminating roadside parking between the Wildcat entrance and Alta Lodge—an unpopular move for backcountry users. But thanks to WBA’s ongoing relationship with the Forest Service and ongoing advocacy, we’re happy to report that the proposal has been shelved. This is a powerful example of how consistent engagement and relationship-building are paying off for our community.

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Cardiff Collaboration
Wasatch Backcountry Alliance has continued its long-standing efforts to build trust and collaborate with the landowners in Cardiff Fork- which was demonstrated when Cardiff Canyon Owners Association (CCOA) granted access for this past winter. We’re encouraged by the ongoing conversations and are hopeful that a Special Use Permit from the Forest Service will soon be signed by CCOA—an important step that would formalize a decade-long reciprocal use agreement ensuring continued public access while respecting private motorized access. This outcome would be a major milestone in our work to protect and preserve backcountry access in one of the Wasatch’s most iconic drainages.

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Interconnect Back in the News
Talk of a ski interconnect through the Central Wasatch has resurfaced again, reminding us why it’s so important to have a strong, organized voice for human-powered recreation. WBA remains committed to preserving the balance between developed and undeveloped terrain in the Wasatch. Read the full article, “Local Billionaire Wants to Buy Park City Mountain Resort, UT, From Vail Resorts and Build Gondola to Alta.”

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Public Lands Victory (with work still to do)
Thanks to the many advocates—including many of you!—the House recently removed some of the most extreme provisions from a federal budget bill introduced by Utah Rep. Celeste Maloy. The bill originally proposed a massive sell-off of public lands in Utah and Nevada that are home to desert camping, biking, climbing, and paddling.  This is a win, but the bill still contains threats to public lands. Let your elected officials know that Utahns value access, conservation, and responsible land stewardship. Send a letter to your reps using this easy form:

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ICYMI: Annual Report
In case you missed it, catch up on all the work we’ve done this past year in our latest Annual Report—from trail counter data and advocacy wins to community engagement.

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Save the Date!
Our 2nd Annual Summit Push Fundraiser is happening on Thursday, October 9th from 6–9 PM at Millcreek Common. Building on the momentum of last year’s successful inaugural event, this evening will bring together the backcountry community for a celebration of advocacy, access, and our shared love of winter in the Wasatch. We’re thrilled to welcome keynote speaker Christian Beckwith, a renowned voice in mountain history and producer of the Ninety-Pound Rucksack podcast.

Interested in sponsoring the event? Reach out to info@wasatchbackcountryalliance.org

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Help WBA continue to advocate for the Wasatch backcountry by donating or becoming a member. We now have custom monthly and annual membership options, where you can choose a custom recurring membership.

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“Put some spring in your step” and support WBA with our NEW Bloomin’ Boot t-shirt and long sleeve!  

The online store is stocked with classic WBA snowflake logo swag and Grateful Dead-inspired tees and hoodies. Fun colors and sizes for all of your touring partners! Rep WBA while supporting our work protecting the Central Wasatch.