Art Nord Trailhead, Mount Odgen, Utah

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Art Nord Trailhead XC Ski

Backcountry Skiing, Art Nord below Snow Basin, Utah

Photo: Dave Banks

Distance: 3-4 miles
Time Needed: 2-3 hours
Rating: Easy
North Fork Park Elev: 5,575 ft
Elevation Gain:: about 250 ft
Maps: USGS 1:100,000 Ogden

Attractions

This short skiing/snowshoeing route is located just down from the Snow Basin Ski Resort, beginning at the Art Nord Drive Trailhead.

This is a quick outing that can be done in a morning. When I did it in mid-February, in unusually warmer weather, the snow was heavy and wet, but in more normal winter weather, it could have some great powder (but on very low angled, short slopes). This isn't a snowmobiling area, so you'll have peace and quiet and will likely be breaking trail. Some family sledding slopes are located next to the parking area.

Driving Directions

The entire way follows paved, plowed roads. From Salt Lake City, take I-15 north approximately 41 miles to the 12th Street Exit (#347) in North Ogden. At the end of the exit, turn left onto Hwy 39 and travel through Ogden Canyon. Stay on the highway, driving on the south side of Pineview Reservoir until reaching the first turnoff to Snow Basin Ski Resort, on your right. About 3.6 miles up this road, you'll reach the Art Nord Drive Trailhead (with a sign). It's located just after descending a small pass.

Trail/Route Notes

The route described here ascends south, but another route goes north down a road/trail (actually part of the Great Western Trail).

From the parking area, cross the highway and start skiing up the righthand (west) side of the canyon. You might find, as I did, other ski tracks to follow. The route follows a summer trail route, which I recommend you follow in order to make it through some thick patches of scrub oak. The route stays on this same side of the canyon all the way to the new highway coming down the other side of Snow Basin Ski Resort. This new highway is not marked on older maps (which I had), but I'd guess it's probably about 2 miles from the trailhead, or about 1 1/2 hours.

For more info on trails in the area, contact the U.S. Forest Service at (801)625-5306.

Recommended Book

Wasatch Winter Trails

A solid guide for beginner to intermediate level skiers and snowshoers. If you've always wanted to experience the peace, solitude, and beauty of winter backcountry travel in the Wasatch, but didn't know where to go, or how to do it safely, get this book.

Get it at Amazon.com

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