WURL: Wasatch Ultimate Ridge Linkup

The WURL is an extremely demanding route. Elite mountain runners might complete it in 15 to 20 hours, while experienced hikers and mountaineers often take 24 to 36 hours in a single push. If you choose to backpack it over 2-3 days, expect to spend 30 to 48 hours on the route.

The terrain is exceptionally challenging and largely unmaintained. Expect extensive boulder hopping, difficult scrambling, and navigation across rugged, unstable, and rocky surfaces. Several sections involve Class 4 and Class 5 scrambling, with some areas presenting high-consequence Class 5 terrain that requires rock climbing skills. There are continuous ascents and descents along ridgelines with very limited flat sections.

The WURL offers extraordinary panoramic views as it traces the ridgelines around Little Cottonwood Canyon. You'll be treated to breathtaking vistas from numerous peaks, and the route passes by notable points such as Twin Lakes Pass, Catherine Pass, Sugarloaf Peak, Mount Baldy, and Hidden Peak. You'll also pass by Bells Canyon Reservoir.

The best time to attempt the WURL is typically during the late summer and early fall when the snow has melted from the high-alpine ridges and weather conditions are generally more stable. However, even then, be prepared for rapidly changing mountain weather.

The WURL route traverses parts of the Twin Peaks Wilderness. While there are no specific permits required for day hiking or backpacking in this wilderness area, standard wilderness regulations apply, such as Leave No Trace principles. Always check with the local Forest Service office for the most current information on regulations or fire restrictions before your trip.

The WURL is a point-to-point route that circumnavigates Little Cottonwood Canyon. Many attempts begin near the Bells Canyon Granite Trailhead. Given its length and difficulty, most attempts require pre-arranged logistics, such as a support crew or pre-stashed water and food caches, rather than relying on a single parking spot for a simple out-and-back.

No, the WURL is not suitable for dogs. Much of the route traverses the Twin Peaks Wilderness Area, which has strict regulations regarding dogs to protect the watershed and wildlife. Additionally, the extreme difficulty, extensive scrambling, and unstable terrain make it unsafe for canine companions.

Yes, while largely unmaintained, the WURL does briefly utilize sections of established trails. You may find yourself on parts of the Lower Bell Canyon Reservoir Loop, the Great Western Trail - Utah, the Mount Wolverine Trail, the Albion Alps Road, and the Cirque Trail for short portions of the overall route.

The WURL is considered extremely difficult and dangerous. It demands significant physical and mental endurance, a strong background in rock climbing, and substantial experience in traversing highly unstable, rocky, high-alpine terrain. It is not suitable for beginners or even intermediate hikers.

Given the extreme nature of the WURL, a comprehensive gear list is crucial. This includes appropriate climbing and scrambling gear (helmet, possibly rope/harness for Class 5 sections), extensive water and food supplies (often requiring caches), navigation tools (GPS, map, compass), first-aid kit, emergency shelter, headlamp, and layers of clothing suitable for rapidly changing mountain weather. Due to the lack of water sources, carrying sufficient hydration or planning for resupply is paramount.

While the WURL is a unique and highly challenging objective, if you're looking for less crowded or less technical ridge experiences in the Wasatch, consider exploring sections of the Great Western Trail or other designated trails that offer ridge walking without the extreme Class 4/5 scrambling. Always research specific routes for their difficulty and popularity.