Snowshoe by Moonlight at WMSP

Well, if Punxsutawney Phil’s prediction is correct we’re in for an early spring. If you haven’t had a chance to hit the hills at Wasatch Mountain State Park for one of their Moonlight Snowshoe events now is the time before Phil’s early spring melts our snow away.

Hiking by the light of the full moon is a unique way to get to know the park. Over the past several years the Friends of Wasatch have been hosting these snowshoeing events to get people out in the hills for some fresh air, fun, and to raise funds for the park. All money raised from these events go to the Friends of Wasatch and are reinvested back in the the park for improvements and other needs. 

Whether you’re an expert or a novice Wasatch Mountain has four levels to suit the needs of every hiker. Most hikes typically last an hour or so and all begin and end near the Visitor Center.

Beginner Hike is on the groomed cross country trail from the Visitor's Center. Ideal for beginners and those who want a simple, groomed trail with zero elevation gain. 8 years old and older welcome. Hike lasts approximately 1 hour. 

Intermediate Beginner will be across the street from the Visitor's Center on the Spring Pond trail. There is 175 foot gradual elevation gain to the top of the trail. The total hike is 3 miles and lasts approximately an hour and a half. Headlamps are optional. Ages 12 and above are welcomed. 

Intermediate Advanced will be across the street from the Visitor's Center on the Spring Pond trail (in the opposite direction as the Intermediate Beginner). There is a 350 foot elevation gain in the first mile. Total hike is 3 miles and lasts approximately an hour and a half. Ages 12 and above are welcomed.

Advanced is on the Spring Pond trail. It an elevation gain of 650 feet in the first 1.4 miles. The total hike is 3 miles and lasts approximately an hour and a half. Nothing technical but it's a slog to the top. Adults only.

Online registration closes the Thursday before each hike at 5:00 pm. Same day registration at time of hike will cost $3 more per person.

There are only two more snowshoe hikes left this winter season. Here are the details:

• February 19, 2016, March 18, 2016           
• Wasatch Mountain State Park - Midway
• Moonlight Snowshoe Hike sponsored by Friends of Wasatch. Go to www.friendsofwasatch.org to register. Pre-registration and payment required. $7 per person and $6 for snowshoe rental. Pay day of event is $10.  Check-in 6-6:45. Hikes start promptly at 7 pm. We welcome kids 8 or older accompanied by an adult. Sorry, no pets are allowed. Join us in the Visitor Center for warm drinks and snacks after the hike.