Destination Posts Archive

Hiking Mt.Whitney

Hiking Mt. Whitney is a bucket-list goal for many hikers and backpackers, but tackling it as a day hike is a serious challenge. This 20-mile round-trip adventure gains over 6,100 feet of elevation in just 10 miles one way. It's a strenuous endeavor not meant for the faint of heart. However, the real challenge isn’t just the physical hike—it’s securing a permit. With only one-third of the 17,000 annual applicants receiving a day-hike permit, the competition is fierce. When combined with backpackers on the John Muir Trail (JMT), nearly 20,000 people reach the summit of Mt. Whitney each year.

California

Hiking to Dude Benchmark Peak

Hiking

Dude Benchmark Peak (7,212 ft) is the high point in between Salt Lake City & Bountiful, Utah. The ridge extends for miles, with City Creek Canyon below to the South and views of Thurston Peak and Ben Lomond Peak to the North. There are several routes to reach Dude Peak, but the easiest is from the North side in Bountiful, starting from a neighborhood trailhead. The hike itself is easy in that there is nothing technical or super steep. It follows the rolling hills along the ridge, with several up and downs, until it reaches the small rocky outcropping overlooking the entire East side of the Salt Lake Valley. Some sections are rocky, but lasts for a short time.

California

Soaking at Crystal Hot Springs

Hot Springs

Crystal Hot Springs is a natural hot springs in Northern Utah that ranges from 120-134 degrees F. The swimming pools are regulated so that you can soak in a range of temperatures from 98-105F. Crystal Hot Springs also contains the highest mineral content found in the world! It has roughly 46,000 mg/L - the average hot spring has closer to 1,000 mg/L. You'll notice this mineral content, as you lick your lips or wipe your hands over your face - it's very salty tasting. Get ready to soak in a 22,000 year old hot spring!