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mt superior south ridge summer fall mountaineering uma
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Mt. Superior South Ridge Climb (Summer/Fall)

$299 plus tax

Towering above Little Cottonwood Canyon, Mt. Superior’s South Ridge is one of the Wasatch’s most iconic alpine objectives. Rising steeply to its 11,050′ summit, this classic route blends outstanding views, fun climbing moves, high-quality rock and a true summit experience in any season. A UMA guide will help you safely navigate this airy ridgeline, develop essential alpine movement skills and gain the confidence to tackle future high-stakes mountain adventures. The hardest move is rated 5.6.

Course Dates

  • Jul 25, 2026 (Saturday)

Ascend one of the Wasatch’s most recognizable peaks via its stunning South Ridge. This objective is ideal for mountaineers and climbers looking to push into exposed alpine terrain while gaining hands-on experience with route-finding, scrambling and managing risk in high-consequence environments.

This route typically includes 1,000 feet of exposed roped climbing along the knife-edge crest. Protection includes slings, passive protection, stoppers and cams. Guides may employ running belays, short-pitching and short-roping for security. The descent is generally along the easier East Ridge and down to Alta via Cardiff Pass.

Mt. Superior South Ridge Climb (summer/fall) Objectives
  • Summit Mt. Superior via its more technical route
  • Negotiate 4th and 5th class climbing in an alpine setting
  • Learn to negotiate a steep and exposed knife-edge ridge
  • Enjoy 360° views from 11,050′
Max Student : Instructor Ratio

3 : 1

Course dates don’t fit your schedule?

Any of our pre-scheduled courses can be run as custom outings. If you’re interested in a course but the dates don’t fit your schedule, please check out our private guiding options.

    Course Prerequisites
    • Rock climbing experience is recommended.
    Fitness & Skill Level
    • This is an intermediate climb.
    • Good overall fitness is required.

    This full-day climb takes place on the south ridge of Mt. Superior (expect to be in the field for 6-10 hours). Guests are expected to bring their own snacks, lunch and water (2 liters). UMA does not provide transportation.

    SCHEDULE & MEETING LOCATION

    The usual meeting time and place are 7:30 am at Entry 4 at Snowbird. Exact meeting times and locations will be provided to registered guests before the climb date.

    GUIDE/INSTRUCTOR

    You will receive a reminder with the contact information for your guide/instructor. They will contact you directly to confirm meeting time and location, as well as weather considerations and equipment needs.

    TRANSPORTATION & PARKING

    Transportation will not be provided.

    How To Register

    UMA reserves the right to cancel or shorten the course if fewer than 2 participants register.

    Mt. Superior South Ridge EQUIPMENT LIST
    • Comfortable and flexible pants or shorts, and a sun shirt
    • Waterproof/windproof outer shell jacket and pants
    • Light puffy overcoat and or other insulation layer (fleece, synthetic or down)
    • Sunglasses
    • Sunscreen
    • Baseball cap
    • 2 liters of water (water bag recommended)
    • Lunch and quick energy snacks
    • Sticky rubber approach shoes or light hiking boots
    • Day pack (~25-45 liters)
    • Harness
    • Belay device
    • Helmet

    Please see our Rock Climbing Gear List & Rentals page for information on the items UMA provides and local shops where you can rent or purchase gear.

    Recommended Guidebooks

    Rock Climbing the Wasatch Range by Stuart and Bret Ruckman

    Please see our main FAQ page for general questions or for anything not covered below. 

    How old do I need to be to climb?

    Students must be at least 14 years of age to join a group course. For custom guiding and instruction, there is no restriction.

    Should I wear pants or shorts?

    Shorts are nicer for warm days, but long pants will protect your legs from abrasive rock. If shorts are preferred, they should be long enough to go under the leg loops of the harness.

    I don’t own sticky rubber approach shoes; what is a good substitute?

    Light hikers are a better choice as a substitute than a trail running shoe, which has a soft sole that edges poorly.

    Where do I meet my guide?

    The guide will arrange a specific meeting location and time with you. Most commonly, you will meet your guide at 7:30 am at Entry 4 at Snowbird.

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