Mount Superior is a beautiful peak that towers over Alta on the north side of Little Cottonwood Canyon, and the massive south face is one of the most classic backcountry descents in Utah. Often times, when getting a late start on a sunny day, the south face gets baked and wet slide activity becomes a visible concern. So the other option is to descend via the North Face into Cardiff Fork.
The mountains north of Alta are very popular as the access is immediate from town. A short skin up from the road puts skiers atop Cardiff Pass or Flagstaff Peak which provides numerous skiing options. The ease of use also makes it very crowded as the mild terrain is a good place for beginners to learn off-piste skills. Mount Superior is the exception. To get to the top one has to climb 3,000 feet. The ascent varies from climbing with skins on open faces, to bootpacking on rocks and knife-edge ridges. But once on the peak, the surrounding view is spectacular. The only decision left to make is where to go down.
The north face is a more mellow pitch than its more famous sister to the south, but it’s still steep and avalanche prone. The descent begins in a wide bowl that quickly narrows into a small choke that spills into an excellent apron. This run sees a lot of traffic and gets skied out quickly, but once on the apron, fresh powder can be found with a little traversing.
Superior’s north face dumps skiers into Cardiff Fork, where there are many options for a second or third run. Cardiff Ridge and Reed & Benson Ridge are notable for more chute filled fun. To get back to the car, simply skin up the backside of Cardiff Pass and ski toward Alta down to the road. It is worth noting that Cardiff Fork is private property. The landowners allow skiers to use the area but ask that people who recreate there respect the valley. Don’t litter or do anything else illegal or they might charge you with trespassing.
The get to the top of Mount Superior, simply drive to Alta, park near the church, and start climbing up the south facing slope. Follow the skin track that stays under the powerline. When the ridge is attained, traverse west. At some point the skis will have to come off for a bootpack to the top of the peak.
Overall, skiing Mount Superior is a hell of a way to spend a day. The hike up is long and tiring but the reward is awesome powder skiing and incredible views of the Wasatch Mountains.