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Catherine
Pass to Sunset Peak Pictures
And Story Sent in by Dj Nebula Of SLC Back
To Little
Cottonwood Canyon Hiking Trails 
Catherine Pass was a place I had already been to, but climbing
Sunset Peak was something I had not done. This peak is clearly
visible from Catherine Pass. I started at the Catherine Pass trail
head and went to the Pass. Once on the Pass, we headed up the sandy
incline to Sunset Pass. From here there is a minor saddle with a
well traveled foot path to the summit. This trail to the summit is
steep, but short and does not take very long. Up a couple of
switchbacks and you are at the top. It has the best view of the
Brighton Lakes area. Also views of Heber, Mt Timpanogos, as well as
the Uintas. Being the explorer that I am, getting up there was a
treat in its self. We ate lunch, then while taking some pictures I
saw lightning, heard some thunder, and knew it was time to get off
the ridge tops. So making a fast bolt off the summit, down to the
minor saddle, I traversed the front side of Sunset Peak to Lake
Catherine.
At Lake
Catherine I ran into some friends who had come up the Brighton Lakes
Trail. Being at this lake is superb. It is quiet, serene, and just
damn cozy to say the least.
They were on
the pass and got down to the lake to be off the ridge tops too. They
watched me traverse the front side of Sunset Peak down to the lake
and said it looked sweet. We all took some time hanging out by the
lake, then the rain started to fall so we all made for Catherine
Pass, up the steep trail to the saddle. Warning: Lightning
is a leading cause of outdoor fatalities in the State of Utah. If
you see black clouds, then they are surely thunderheads. Be aware at
all times the weather, if you hear thunder and it sounds close, it
is a safe bet and it would be a good idea to get off the ridge tops.
Thunderheads charge as they climb over our mountains, making
lighting on a peak or a ridge that much more lethal.
Views
from the trail, looking into the Heber Valley.
Besides,
usually if you are on a peak, you are above the timberline, making
you the highest point of contact. Best not to take your chance with
nature’s ultimate light show. Pretty as a lightning storm can be,
deadly are the consequences if you are in the wrong place at the
wrong time. So pay attention to the skies. It is really easy to get
lost in the beauty of the landscape, and not pay attention to the
weather. The best is to call the National Weather Service for up to
date forecasting before you go hike, or check them out online. Pick
a clear day for peak bag hikes, clear and sunny days are less likely
to develop thunderheads than a partly or mostly cloudy day. All in
all, Sunset Peak was a great hike, if you get a chance you should
visit there, the views are awesome, and you get to experience
climbing a mountain first hand.
Directions
And Trail Stats
Little
Cottonwood Canyon- Trail Head-Sunnyside lot, Albion Basin, Alta
Distance
to Catherine Pass- 1.5miles
Elevation
Change- 1200 vertical feet to10, 220 feet
Hiking
Time- 1hr
Distance
to Sunset Peak- 2.25miles
Elevation
Change- 1658 vertical feet to 10,529 feet
Hiking
Time- 1hr 40min
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