Following in the Footsteps of Pioneers in the Wasatch Range

When writing about the history of the Mormons a few days ago, I didn’t think I’d be standing in their tracks just days later!

I arrived in Salt Lake yesterday and drove out of the city early this morning to the Little Mountain Summit lookout point. The mountains are just 15 minutes from downtown Salt Lake.

I wandered around for a while, taking in the view and the fresh air. There was a light smell of smoke, and later in the day, I learned that wildfires have engulfed 20,000 acres about 100km from there in Yellow Lake.

A plaque stood at the entrance of the parking lot. Wouldn’t you know, I was standing on the very road where Mormon settlers rode through in 1847. In fact, Little Mountain Summit was their final pass through the Wasatch Range. From here, they would descend into the valley, where Brigham Young famously declared, “This is the right place. Drive on.”

The route had been used the year prior by the Donner Party, another group of American pioneers on their way to California. Standing there, I could almost feel the weight of history–the struggles, hopes, and sheer determination of those who traveled through this exact spot. What an adventure that must have been.

Later, I drove further into the mountains to Guardsman Pass. Driving through the ski towns and resorts, I passed the Utah Olympic Parc, where the Winter Games were held in 2002 and will happen again in 2034.

This area was an incredible sight. The Aspen tree leaves were turning yellow, and the smoke flowing through the valleys filled me with a great sense of calm.

Though this will be a busy week, I’m grateful for this peaceful day in nature. I want to spend more time around next year’s Permissionless and do some proper hiking.