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- Dec 23, 2013
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Over the past twenty five years or so, I've hiked to the top of Mount Wire and Mount Van Cott at least sixty times each. Usually, I hike each in the early spring as I warm up for bigger peaks later in the spring/summer. In the fall, I hike them again as I wind down my backpacking/hiking season before the snow flies here in Salt Lake. Occasionally, I will hike them a third time during the year if I need to get a quick hike in and get back to do other chores in the afternoon. I have always done these hikes as separate ones, but yesterday I combined both peaks into the same day hike. The length of the lollipop loop was roughly 14 miles as measured on a map. I'm guessing that it was probably closer to 15 when all was said and done on the ground. Another first for this hike was that I would summit both from the south, as opposed to the northern routes to the peaks, which I had taken all the previous times that I summited Wire and Van Cott.
I might mention too that this fall, for all my foothill hikes, I have been starting out from my house instead of driving to the various trailheads like I have done in the past. I figure this would add some miles to my hike, and give me a bit more exercise to keep me in some semblance of shape before old man winter arrives.
Let's get started.
![Mount_Wire_and_Mount_Van_Cott_Loop.jpg Mount_Wire_and_Mount_Van_Cott_Loop.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103811-8e297ed6e434ca0e84394a0dbae3317e.jpg)
Route overview map
![01.jpg 01.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103709-0242a350687dbb0ce28dbe2ceee5a8bb.jpg)
My wife and I headed out about 7:45 in the morning and the sunrise was a good one.
![02.jpg 02.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103710-a66e1e6ac4949db2443c657439860687.jpg)
Pretty
![03.jpg 03.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103711-75ffa12882004b96ea5bf86820bc8822.jpg)
We're heading through the neighborhood at this point, with a view of the southern peak of the Avenues Twin Peaks to our north
![04.jpg 04.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103712-048e7c07fe3768d7529fec855c95caa8.jpg)
I zoomed in from the Avenues on Triangle Peak, the snow covered Broads Fork Twin Peaks, and Mount Olympus far to our south
![05.jpg 05.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103713-d5353fed9f1487d8f2c8d65c90ce3ab5.jpg)
Dropping down from our neighborhood towards Dry Canyon and the Bonneville Shoreline Trail which I will follow all the way to the
mouth of Emigration Canyon and the trail up the south side of Mount Wire
![06.jpg 06.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103714-deea4676310c5796e4524c885beebf48.jpg)
Startling a flock of pigeons as we pass by Mount Van Cott on our way towards Mount Wire
![07.jpg 07.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103715-d2d2530ab3cf7f7dd6b25edbb489e080.jpg)
One last patch of yellow on this rabbit brush shrub
![08.jpg 08.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103716-55bee576e172a73b9aeea05f73808726.jpg)
Sumac showing off its fall colors
![09.jpg 09.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103717-4d1093da2acf7a742b4a6fd096a3fb5f.jpg)
The western approach for Mount Van Cott
![10.jpg 10.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103718-f6514767e830453d48ea3691c377bdb6.jpg)
Signage for the Shoreline Trail as we approach the Natural History Museum
![11.jpg 11.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103719-5a3094b6c4ee5a75cd18780e757fb7c0.jpg)
About to cross Red Butte Creek
![11b.jpg 11b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103720-fc5a13806eee7fc4a388c72c8a55f735.jpg)
With the sun popping out over the foothills, it was time to take a break and put some sunscreen on. This is the point where my
wife turned around and headed back.
![12.jpg 12.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103721-08042b1c03476728bd21d177b8512e2a.jpg)
Rabbit brush in bloom
![13.jpg 13.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103722-b117dd650d4998e74f587a25350ea6c0.jpg)
A look back north at Mount Van Cott
![14.jpg 14.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103723-088422b7bb171b462495961e904877e1.jpg)
A teepee in the "This is the Place Monument"
![15.jpg 15.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103724-516a18bb4e643746619fb2aaabdc0a6a.jpg)
The silhouette of Jack's Mountain to the south. Another spring hike favorite of mine
![16.jpg 16.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103725-c24d7ab1c355e9f8d4fe0a98cada54fd.jpg)
View slightly to the northwest as i approach the trail up the south side of Mount Wire
![17.jpg 17.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103726-85495335b838b806972dd79d950d92f9.jpg)
Mount Wire dead ahead
![18.jpg 18.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103727-ad129face6ca4c1877d49606ac40d755.jpg)
Some Mountain Mahoganies up top
![19.jpg 19.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103728-2a9ad7e52580a4eba353c19c9602f6c3.jpg)
The trail heads right up the ridge of the knob straight ahead
![21.jpg 21.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103730-98cff7812ff387fa64329106fc1925ed.jpg)
Approaching the knob
![20.jpg 20.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103731-244e72bb3341c5f6531afbc2160389df.jpg)
The knob
![22.jpg 22.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103732-28f99affdf34ddf6b15097b9f401bc67.jpg)
Some aster still blooming along the trail
![23.jpg 23.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103733-c76223e8023da2711d2c9ff3095d619e.jpg)
A look back down into the valley. You can still make out the teepee down below.
![24.jpg 24.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103734-ef84b480b1b298c798749a4956775473.jpg)
Mountain Mahogany time
![25.jpg 25.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103735-642d4671a9fecdc4d87279f11d0a141d.jpg)
A little rocky section along the ridge
![26.jpg 26.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103736-12026ea94c666a12bfb3b51e20360261.jpg)
View south along the Wasatch Front
![27.jpg 27.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103737-8a3df0d91c79fe51a4dfb9b6d19b8b33.jpg)
These two passed me like I was standing still. The dog's name was Gunner.
![28.jpg 28.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103738-6233bd5e93dc942ee1bbbdbb3a327af2.jpg)
A little over halfway to the top, and I'm sucking wind. Typical.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![29.jpg 29.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103739-2c5bb7956d55ff18e9ed29d3958d9e23.jpg)
First good look into Emigration Canyon
![30.jpg 30.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103740-b7b5f56219aff646e326c68a212a8b12.jpg)
The old airplane beacon on the summit finally comes into view
![31.jpg 31.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103741-a1dd7e95e493083c89ac2505fc972259.jpg)
Some deer scat just below the summit
![32.jpg 32.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103742-f92bf3cbbaf3f940062e41f46a25d8b3.jpg)
Geeze, like herding cats @Rockskipper. One of these dogs came and sat on my lap while I was trying to eat a snack. I saw a total of
57 hound dogs/pooches on this hike.
![33.jpg 33.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103743-08f7394fe2c26b248d7695552f2dac51.jpg)
Once I got to the top of Wire, it clouded up and would stay that way for the rest of the day
![34.jpg 34.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103744-ecf5e9524249a4b9011f86694bf879c2.jpg)
My snack on the top of wire
![35.jpg 35.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103745-4a1ef6572441fa9793fbb7c968513b6e.jpg)
Black Mountain Ridge to the north, along with Grandview Peak in the far distance located on the north ridge of City Creek Canyon
![36.jpg 36.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103746-58e507a2279fe59c1903b4dc145866c2.jpg)
Looking towards Mount Van Cott, which is about 800 feet shorter than Wire. Antelope Island in the far distance
![37.jpg 37.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103747-7c9fb655175594134a847aa80e2f4733.jpg)
My gear for the day
![38.jpg 38.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103748-6d0baad233c5d8a8463bf2fa0264c036.jpg)
Leaving the Mount Wire summit after my break, three hours and twenty eight minutes into my hike.
![39.jpg 39.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103749-bd82ae0dd99c26d812a924eba2205e0b.jpg)
My favorite Mountain Mahogany in the whole wide world.
![40.jpg 40.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103750-4d7aacc88429dd403a7d61de781ef540.jpg)
Van Cott straight ahead
![41.jpg 41.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103751-544c5f248b7b2edda665179b3d00754b.jpg)
The Red Butte Ridge and George's Hollow below which I will be following back down to pick up the Shoreline Trail again
![42.jpg 42.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103752-dc3072c3efe75336d9404b1460efd8aa.jpg)
The trail through George's Hollow
![43.jpg 43.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103753-a707d02d3f2622e6a9af535fc31e1721.jpg)
A slight touch of red still holding on
![44.jpg 44.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103754-2256a75e07c498682919630a6337da33.jpg)
Still making my way down George's Hollow
![45.jpg 45.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103755-6f553d3d4de82a90623c59f4e6b85b5d.jpg)
Fall colors of the Oregon Grape
![46.jpg 46.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103756-955576d4ef14a6fbb280e142218793e2.jpg)
The foothills do have some steep sections to them as this shot looks down George's Hollow and
out into the valley
![48.jpg 48.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103757-14ceb50f0cd7bca88a010c44f5169d14.jpg)
Just following the ridge down to the Shoreline Trail at this point with the University of Utah below
![49.jpg 49.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103758-d5dc28e87e4c061a09c7b07270ec1a75.jpg)
A view back up George's Hollow
![50.jpg 50.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103759-20da7da9c6898c67d9a19ff63c7268ce.jpg)
Back on the Shoreline Trail and heading north towards Red Butte Gardens. I will be making my way around the east side of the
Gardens before dropping down into Red Butte Canyon
![51.jpg 51.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103760-59cd0b8395d9942b110cb761ea700451.jpg)
A look up towards Peak 5773
![52.jpg 52.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103761-d6343de93304fe7cc3c7234c91be2e0e.jpg)
On the backside (east) of the Natural History Museum
![53.jpg 53.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103762-16fbbd2c2e192c41b2fd229a1d760087.jpg)
Trail sign for the trail that I will take to make my way around Red Butte Gardens
![54.jpg 54.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103763-6d7b5c3d5effdd2ad5b090827c43e906.jpg)
heading east up Soldiers Hollow, with Red Butte above
![55.jpg 55.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103764-2e56bbf3126f678403e5e95046c688f7.jpg)
Mount Van Cott comes back into view
![56.jpg 56.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103765-77d27f586adadff84c0423ab1626d6f9.jpg)
The old Quarry House on the Gardens grounds
![57.jpg 57.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103766-112c6d23e58b894c6b0c8bca0fdfba1f.jpg)
I really wanted to lie down on this bench and take a nap.![Smile :) :)](data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7)
![58.jpg 58.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103767-aa849318090f774d4ed233b0062b097d.jpg)
The nature trail with Van Cott in the distance
![59.jpg 59.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103768-413d8e8c439a11f0bf7ee46fb6030a4b.jpg)
A look up at the north side of Red Butte as I drop down into Red Butte Canyon
![60.jpg 60.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103769-d37f4b2b138591fd90b14f494b27d4da.jpg)
More asters in bloom
![61.jpg 61.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103770-99c628f4932d48c852e592c5ae30c05f.jpg)
heading down into the canyon
![62.jpg 62.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103771-8e3727eb8f7bb703eba05a152074c402.jpg)
A rose bush's fall colors
![63.jpg 63.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103772-b112d0f74c23ac20ac8e06e33a984dc7.jpg)
Red Butte Creek
![64.jpg 64.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103773-7572e97faeac63ead6ec17b3b928b3d5.jpg)
No trespassing beyond this point
![65.jpg 65.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103774-2de85f8004554a52d982937f130c4327.jpg)
Fall colors are dwindling at the bottom of the canyon
![66.jpg 66.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103775-7f97e858221df0b620a6db62c6fa1ab6.jpg)
Five and a half hours in and I'm starting the climb up Mount Van Cott
![67.jpg 67.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103776-885e81f5a5a99e00f38066b341afa07b.jpg)
Here we go. You can't make out the top yet from this vantage point
![68.jpg 68.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103777-784b16c79af3921a9eb4d42aeb6ee7df.jpg)
Looking up at the ridge to the east of Van Cott
![69.jpg 69.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103778-df05ffd3e73c0221d158c2693eac2f4d.jpg)
I had a nice chat with these two bow hunters coming off of Van Cott
![70.jpg 70.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103779-1a86648c5b147201b73207ea58cb11ca.jpg)
A nice look back across Red Butte Canyon at Red Butte as I gain a little bit of elevation
![71.jpg 71.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103780-314e0299611176cf8cc6b3364bb9e8ea.jpg)
Common Storksbill leaves changing to red along the trail
![72.jpg 72.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103781-f8cebf3c0f449300e2876393d01f18a4.jpg)
And some storksbill blooming still
![73.jpg 73.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103782-42b4a41c07466a26d78c6a8bb7b4235b.jpg)
The summit of Van Cott above. Unfortunately the trail heads west and then turns back northeast up the ridge to gain the summit
![74.jpg 74.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103783-3d794bbac77dc966dc1e8cda8e0e73ec.jpg)
Heading northeast towards the summit
![77.jpg 77.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103785-e327cdaef0e0e7d58c4c54bc10db801c.jpg)
Trip time as I reached the summit
![75.jpg 75.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103784-23fa5492677d08da476ddcda6fc81f9f.jpg)
Looking back south towards Mount Wire where I was three hours earlier
![76.jpg 76.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103786-a117a8e1cb6de2cddd932eb999673957.jpg)
A zoomed in shot with the airplane beacon visible
![78.jpg 78.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103787-8c546609e8f717002a5e168d2462487c.jpg)
One can see some of Red Butte Resevroir from the summit of Mount Van Cott
![79.jpg 79.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103788-1dba2020c1c95df715d4a36b5c4a18fe.jpg)
Go Aggies!
Enjoying a break and some snacks on Mount Van Cott.
![80.jpg 80.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103789-69d940d7c17f3ab56f8de006afcd1b9b.jpg)
Oh my! A fifteen round heavyweight fight between Scatman and the Sweat Snap Swish Gatorade.
Who is your money on?
![81.jpg 81.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103790-ea2cf93c91c463db25b38071068ceca2.jpg)
59 degrees up top with a good wind blowing
![82.jpg 82.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103791-99570448b35a198295869566f9374c82.jpg)
The way home as I drop down off the north side of Van Cott - my usual route.
![83.jpg 83.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103792-eb8b14ded7f450ba607dd2993ccb14e0.jpg)
The Black Mountain Ridge
![84.jpg 84.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103793-efb5780b011779dc60a533609e4a5680.jpg)
And the valley below
![85.jpg 85.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103794-66a12c732197738562a197aa0ee1b759.jpg)
More blooming Rabbit Brush with Van Cott above
![86.jpg 86.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103795-a73084d8c58cad5018921bf9d86966df.jpg)
Looking down into Dry Canyon
![87.jpg 87.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103796-7e253be4824902012b85e4482dbab968.jpg)
The fall colors of sumac along the trail
![88.jpg 88.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103797-17789c35e4843e9479889c297dcfee35.jpg)
Life Flight taking of from the University Hospital. I was kind of hoping that they would come pick me up.
![89.jpg 89.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103798-98159c247daaeb85881f71a4148c55cc.jpg)
Antelope Bitterbrush leaves turning their fall yellow.
![90.jpg 90.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103799-991e4fea06c3563e7a74b43c71bed765.jpg)
I just love the golden grass of the foothills
![91.jpg 91.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103800-6af1bf76acf252270d90246437eaf843.jpg)
Another look up Dry Canyon, this time in the afternoon
![92.jpg 92.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103801-113825fb384ee725bc50dcd549bf7170.jpg)
Not sure what this flower is, but I thought it was pretty. I'll need to see if I can look it up.
![93.jpg 93.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103802-89287ed93c43bb433f4206c0ed915318.jpg)
More sumac
![94.jpg 94.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103803-eff5212f0558d1529e925e1f93163122.jpg)
Back on the bike path that leads back to my neighborhood
![95.jpg 95.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103804-a1e41552647b07fa4626e68021b2b5e3.jpg)
A shed for tools and such at the local community garden
![96.jpg 96.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103805-6771c3fc2d352106dad2483959714f1a.jpg)
I didn't need to go to the foothills to see wildlife.
A couple of deer in a yard on 10th Avenue, just one block north of my house
![97.jpg 97.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103806-b6f115afe25f51b23814f5b21dad9299.jpg)
Hello.
![98.jpg 98.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103807-f42d2d1b9e37ad0593cd2fb2797d6a05.jpg)
I see ya.
![99.jpg 99.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103808-3c4fc9d5ccb58bc32d4d2d0dc1736bf9.jpg)
Home sweet home
![100.jpg 100.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103809-9bab897fb56f2df6c848a665a731c5ba.jpg)
Greeted at the front door by the best "Tent Tester" in the world - Juniper, or as I affectionately call her "June-bug."
![101.jpg 101.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103810-f9d1ad2f1fb8a570577feba4eeddcf27.jpg)
Total time: 8 hours and 29 minutes
The End
I might mention too that this fall, for all my foothill hikes, I have been starting out from my house instead of driving to the various trailheads like I have done in the past. I figure this would add some miles to my hike, and give me a bit more exercise to keep me in some semblance of shape before old man winter arrives.
Let's get started.
![Mount_Wire_and_Mount_Van_Cott_Loop.jpg Mount_Wire_and_Mount_Van_Cott_Loop.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103811-8e297ed6e434ca0e84394a0dbae3317e.jpg)
Route overview map
![01.jpg 01.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103709-0242a350687dbb0ce28dbe2ceee5a8bb.jpg)
My wife and I headed out about 7:45 in the morning and the sunrise was a good one.
![02.jpg 02.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103710-a66e1e6ac4949db2443c657439860687.jpg)
Pretty
![03.jpg 03.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103711-75ffa12882004b96ea5bf86820bc8822.jpg)
We're heading through the neighborhood at this point, with a view of the southern peak of the Avenues Twin Peaks to our north
![04.jpg 04.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103712-048e7c07fe3768d7529fec855c95caa8.jpg)
I zoomed in from the Avenues on Triangle Peak, the snow covered Broads Fork Twin Peaks, and Mount Olympus far to our south
![05.jpg 05.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103713-d5353fed9f1487d8f2c8d65c90ce3ab5.jpg)
Dropping down from our neighborhood towards Dry Canyon and the Bonneville Shoreline Trail which I will follow all the way to the
mouth of Emigration Canyon and the trail up the south side of Mount Wire
![06.jpg 06.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103714-deea4676310c5796e4524c885beebf48.jpg)
Startling a flock of pigeons as we pass by Mount Van Cott on our way towards Mount Wire
![07.jpg 07.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103715-d2d2530ab3cf7f7dd6b25edbb489e080.jpg)
One last patch of yellow on this rabbit brush shrub
![08.jpg 08.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103716-55bee576e172a73b9aeea05f73808726.jpg)
Sumac showing off its fall colors
![09.jpg 09.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103717-4d1093da2acf7a742b4a6fd096a3fb5f.jpg)
The western approach for Mount Van Cott
![10.jpg 10.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103718-f6514767e830453d48ea3691c377bdb6.jpg)
Signage for the Shoreline Trail as we approach the Natural History Museum
![11.jpg 11.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103719-5a3094b6c4ee5a75cd18780e757fb7c0.jpg)
About to cross Red Butte Creek
![11b.jpg 11b.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103720-fc5a13806eee7fc4a388c72c8a55f735.jpg)
With the sun popping out over the foothills, it was time to take a break and put some sunscreen on. This is the point where my
wife turned around and headed back.
![12.jpg 12.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103721-08042b1c03476728bd21d177b8512e2a.jpg)
Rabbit brush in bloom
![13.jpg 13.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103722-b117dd650d4998e74f587a25350ea6c0.jpg)
A look back north at Mount Van Cott
![14.jpg 14.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103723-088422b7bb171b462495961e904877e1.jpg)
A teepee in the "This is the Place Monument"
![15.jpg 15.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103724-516a18bb4e643746619fb2aaabdc0a6a.jpg)
The silhouette of Jack's Mountain to the south. Another spring hike favorite of mine
![16.jpg 16.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103725-c24d7ab1c355e9f8d4fe0a98cada54fd.jpg)
View slightly to the northwest as i approach the trail up the south side of Mount Wire
![17.jpg 17.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103726-85495335b838b806972dd79d950d92f9.jpg)
Mount Wire dead ahead
![18.jpg 18.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103727-ad129face6ca4c1877d49606ac40d755.jpg)
Some Mountain Mahoganies up top
![19.jpg 19.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103728-2a9ad7e52580a4eba353c19c9602f6c3.jpg)
The trail heads right up the ridge of the knob straight ahead
![21.jpg 21.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103730-98cff7812ff387fa64329106fc1925ed.jpg)
Approaching the knob
![20.jpg 20.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103731-244e72bb3341c5f6531afbc2160389df.jpg)
The knob
![22.jpg 22.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103732-28f99affdf34ddf6b15097b9f401bc67.jpg)
Some aster still blooming along the trail
![23.jpg 23.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103733-c76223e8023da2711d2c9ff3095d619e.jpg)
A look back down into the valley. You can still make out the teepee down below.
![24.jpg 24.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103734-ef84b480b1b298c798749a4956775473.jpg)
Mountain Mahogany time
![25.jpg 25.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103735-642d4671a9fecdc4d87279f11d0a141d.jpg)
A little rocky section along the ridge
![26.jpg 26.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103736-12026ea94c666a12bfb3b51e20360261.jpg)
View south along the Wasatch Front
![27.jpg 27.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103737-8a3df0d91c79fe51a4dfb9b6d19b8b33.jpg)
These two passed me like I was standing still. The dog's name was Gunner.
![28.jpg 28.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103738-6233bd5e93dc942ee1bbbdbb3a327af2.jpg)
A little over halfway to the top, and I'm sucking wind. Typical.
![29.jpg 29.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103739-2c5bb7956d55ff18e9ed29d3958d9e23.jpg)
First good look into Emigration Canyon
![30.jpg 30.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103740-b7b5f56219aff646e326c68a212a8b12.jpg)
The old airplane beacon on the summit finally comes into view
![31.jpg 31.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103741-a1dd7e95e493083c89ac2505fc972259.jpg)
Some deer scat just below the summit
![32.jpg 32.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103742-f92bf3cbbaf3f940062e41f46a25d8b3.jpg)
Geeze, like herding cats @Rockskipper. One of these dogs came and sat on my lap while I was trying to eat a snack. I saw a total of
57 hound dogs/pooches on this hike.
![33.jpg 33.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103743-08f7394fe2c26b248d7695552f2dac51.jpg)
Once I got to the top of Wire, it clouded up and would stay that way for the rest of the day
![34.jpg 34.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103744-ecf5e9524249a4b9011f86694bf879c2.jpg)
My snack on the top of wire
![35.jpg 35.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103745-4a1ef6572441fa9793fbb7c968513b6e.jpg)
Black Mountain Ridge to the north, along with Grandview Peak in the far distance located on the north ridge of City Creek Canyon
![36.jpg 36.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103746-58e507a2279fe59c1903b4dc145866c2.jpg)
Looking towards Mount Van Cott, which is about 800 feet shorter than Wire. Antelope Island in the far distance
![37.jpg 37.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103747-7c9fb655175594134a847aa80e2f4733.jpg)
My gear for the day
![38.jpg 38.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103748-6d0baad233c5d8a8463bf2fa0264c036.jpg)
Leaving the Mount Wire summit after my break, three hours and twenty eight minutes into my hike.
![39.jpg 39.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103749-bd82ae0dd99c26d812a924eba2205e0b.jpg)
My favorite Mountain Mahogany in the whole wide world.
![40.jpg 40.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103750-4d7aacc88429dd403a7d61de781ef540.jpg)
Van Cott straight ahead
![41.jpg 41.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103751-544c5f248b7b2edda665179b3d00754b.jpg)
The Red Butte Ridge and George's Hollow below which I will be following back down to pick up the Shoreline Trail again
![42.jpg 42.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103752-dc3072c3efe75336d9404b1460efd8aa.jpg)
The trail through George's Hollow
![43.jpg 43.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103753-a707d02d3f2622e6a9af535fc31e1721.jpg)
A slight touch of red still holding on
![44.jpg 44.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103754-2256a75e07c498682919630a6337da33.jpg)
Still making my way down George's Hollow
![45.jpg 45.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103755-6f553d3d4de82a90623c59f4e6b85b5d.jpg)
Fall colors of the Oregon Grape
![46.jpg 46.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103756-955576d4ef14a6fbb280e142218793e2.jpg)
The foothills do have some steep sections to them as this shot looks down George's Hollow and
out into the valley
![48.jpg 48.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103757-14ceb50f0cd7bca88a010c44f5169d14.jpg)
Just following the ridge down to the Shoreline Trail at this point with the University of Utah below
![49.jpg 49.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103758-d5dc28e87e4c061a09c7b07270ec1a75.jpg)
A view back up George's Hollow
![50.jpg 50.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103759-20da7da9c6898c67d9a19ff63c7268ce.jpg)
Back on the Shoreline Trail and heading north towards Red Butte Gardens. I will be making my way around the east side of the
Gardens before dropping down into Red Butte Canyon
![51.jpg 51.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103760-59cd0b8395d9942b110cb761ea700451.jpg)
A look up towards Peak 5773
![52.jpg 52.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103761-d6343de93304fe7cc3c7234c91be2e0e.jpg)
On the backside (east) of the Natural History Museum
![53.jpg 53.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103762-16fbbd2c2e192c41b2fd229a1d760087.jpg)
Trail sign for the trail that I will take to make my way around Red Butte Gardens
![54.jpg 54.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103763-6d7b5c3d5effdd2ad5b090827c43e906.jpg)
heading east up Soldiers Hollow, with Red Butte above
![55.jpg 55.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103764-2e56bbf3126f678403e5e95046c688f7.jpg)
Mount Van Cott comes back into view
![56.jpg 56.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103765-77d27f586adadff84c0423ab1626d6f9.jpg)
The old Quarry House on the Gardens grounds
![57.jpg 57.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103766-112c6d23e58b894c6b0c8bca0fdfba1f.jpg)
I really wanted to lie down on this bench and take a nap.
![58.jpg 58.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103767-aa849318090f774d4ed233b0062b097d.jpg)
The nature trail with Van Cott in the distance
![59.jpg 59.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103768-413d8e8c439a11f0bf7ee46fb6030a4b.jpg)
A look up at the north side of Red Butte as I drop down into Red Butte Canyon
![60.jpg 60.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103769-d37f4b2b138591fd90b14f494b27d4da.jpg)
More asters in bloom
![61.jpg 61.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103770-99c628f4932d48c852e592c5ae30c05f.jpg)
heading down into the canyon
![62.jpg 62.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103771-8e3727eb8f7bb703eba05a152074c402.jpg)
A rose bush's fall colors
![63.jpg 63.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103772-b112d0f74c23ac20ac8e06e33a984dc7.jpg)
Red Butte Creek
![64.jpg 64.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103773-7572e97faeac63ead6ec17b3b928b3d5.jpg)
No trespassing beyond this point
![65.jpg 65.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103774-2de85f8004554a52d982937f130c4327.jpg)
Fall colors are dwindling at the bottom of the canyon
![66.jpg 66.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103775-7f97e858221df0b620a6db62c6fa1ab6.jpg)
Five and a half hours in and I'm starting the climb up Mount Van Cott
![67.jpg 67.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103776-885e81f5a5a99e00f38066b341afa07b.jpg)
Here we go. You can't make out the top yet from this vantage point
![68.jpg 68.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103777-784b16c79af3921a9eb4d42aeb6ee7df.jpg)
Looking up at the ridge to the east of Van Cott
![69.jpg 69.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103778-df05ffd3e73c0221d158c2693eac2f4d.jpg)
I had a nice chat with these two bow hunters coming off of Van Cott
![70.jpg 70.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103779-1a86648c5b147201b73207ea58cb11ca.jpg)
A nice look back across Red Butte Canyon at Red Butte as I gain a little bit of elevation
![71.jpg 71.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103780-314e0299611176cf8cc6b3364bb9e8ea.jpg)
Common Storksbill leaves changing to red along the trail
![72.jpg 72.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103781-f8cebf3c0f449300e2876393d01f18a4.jpg)
And some storksbill blooming still
![73.jpg 73.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103782-42b4a41c07466a26d78c6a8bb7b4235b.jpg)
The summit of Van Cott above. Unfortunately the trail heads west and then turns back northeast up the ridge to gain the summit
![74.jpg 74.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103783-3d794bbac77dc966dc1e8cda8e0e73ec.jpg)
Heading northeast towards the summit
![77.jpg 77.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103785-e327cdaef0e0e7d58c4c54bc10db801c.jpg)
Trip time as I reached the summit
![75.jpg 75.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103784-23fa5492677d08da476ddcda6fc81f9f.jpg)
Looking back south towards Mount Wire where I was three hours earlier
![76.jpg 76.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103786-a117a8e1cb6de2cddd932eb999673957.jpg)
A zoomed in shot with the airplane beacon visible
![78.jpg 78.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103787-8c546609e8f717002a5e168d2462487c.jpg)
One can see some of Red Butte Resevroir from the summit of Mount Van Cott
![79.jpg 79.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103788-1dba2020c1c95df715d4a36b5c4a18fe.jpg)
Go Aggies!
![80.jpg 80.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103789-69d940d7c17f3ab56f8de006afcd1b9b.jpg)
Oh my! A fifteen round heavyweight fight between Scatman and the Sweat Snap Swish Gatorade.
Who is your money on?
![81.jpg 81.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103790-ea2cf93c91c463db25b38071068ceca2.jpg)
59 degrees up top with a good wind blowing
![82.jpg 82.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103791-99570448b35a198295869566f9374c82.jpg)
The way home as I drop down off the north side of Van Cott - my usual route.
![83.jpg 83.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103792-eb8b14ded7f450ba607dd2993ccb14e0.jpg)
The Black Mountain Ridge
![84.jpg 84.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103793-efb5780b011779dc60a533609e4a5680.jpg)
And the valley below
![85.jpg 85.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103794-66a12c732197738562a197aa0ee1b759.jpg)
More blooming Rabbit Brush with Van Cott above
![86.jpg 86.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103795-a73084d8c58cad5018921bf9d86966df.jpg)
Looking down into Dry Canyon
![87.jpg 87.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103796-7e253be4824902012b85e4482dbab968.jpg)
The fall colors of sumac along the trail
![88.jpg 88.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103797-17789c35e4843e9479889c297dcfee35.jpg)
Life Flight taking of from the University Hospital. I was kind of hoping that they would come pick me up.
![89.jpg 89.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103798-98159c247daaeb85881f71a4148c55cc.jpg)
Antelope Bitterbrush leaves turning their fall yellow.
![90.jpg 90.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103799-991e4fea06c3563e7a74b43c71bed765.jpg)
I just love the golden grass of the foothills
![91.jpg 91.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103800-6af1bf76acf252270d90246437eaf843.jpg)
Another look up Dry Canyon, this time in the afternoon
![92.jpg 92.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103801-113825fb384ee725bc50dcd549bf7170.jpg)
Not sure what this flower is, but I thought it was pretty. I'll need to see if I can look it up.
![93.jpg 93.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103802-89287ed93c43bb433f4206c0ed915318.jpg)
More sumac
![94.jpg 94.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103803-eff5212f0558d1529e925e1f93163122.jpg)
Back on the bike path that leads back to my neighborhood
![95.jpg 95.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103804-a1e41552647b07fa4626e68021b2b5e3.jpg)
A shed for tools and such at the local community garden
![96.jpg 96.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103805-6771c3fc2d352106dad2483959714f1a.jpg)
I didn't need to go to the foothills to see wildlife.
![97.jpg 97.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103806-b6f115afe25f51b23814f5b21dad9299.jpg)
Hello.
![98.jpg 98.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103807-f42d2d1b9e37ad0593cd2fb2797d6a05.jpg)
I see ya.
![99.jpg 99.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103808-3c4fc9d5ccb58bc32d4d2d0dc1736bf9.jpg)
Home sweet home
![100.jpg 100.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103809-9bab897fb56f2df6c848a665a731c5ba.jpg)
Greeted at the front door by the best "Tent Tester" in the world - Juniper, or as I affectionately call her "June-bug."
![101.jpg 101.jpg](https://backcountrypost.com/data/attachments/103/103810-f9d1ad2f1fb8a570577feba4eeddcf27.jpg)
Total time: 8 hours and 29 minutes
The End
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