Leaf peeping alert! Plan a day trip in September or October to Guardsman Pass, which boasts ample fall foliage.
Photo: Austen Diamond
History of Guardsman Pass
The 1860s mining boom in Park City drew people to the Rocky Mountains with the promise of wealth hidden within its peaks. The mining town flourished in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, attracting a diverse population eager to strike it rich. Once a quiet mountain landscape, the mining industry gave way to a bustling mining town.
The name “Guardsman Pass” comes from the Fort Douglas soldiers who crossed the area to access potential mining claims. Beyond its military connection, Guardsman Pass served as a vital artery for miners, connecting Park City with the mining district of Alta. Along this historical path, numerous sites bear witness to the region's rich mining heritage. Among these, the Flagstaff Mine stands out as one of the earliest recorded mining claims in the area.
Guardsman Pass captivates visitors with its rugged beauty and historical significance. Offering a tangible link to the industrious past of the American West, the mines highlight the pioneer spirit and the initial discoveries that shaped Park City's future.
Scenic Backway Details
Is Guardsman Pass open?
UDOT closes Guardsman through the winter, typically November through May or June, depending on the weather. Check Utah Department of Transportation's website for more information.
How long is the road?
Guardsman Pass is 24.2 miles from the turn off on Big Cottonwood Canyon Rd and Marsac Ave. near Deer Valley.
What’s the easiest way to get there from SLC?
There are two ways to access Guardsman Pass from Salt Lake City.
To access from Big Cottonwood Canyon, take I-215 South from Salt Lake City to Exit 6. Then, head east up Big Cottonwood Canyon. Before Brighton, turn left (north) onto the Guardsman Pass road.
To access from the Park City side, start in Salt Lake and take Parleys Canyon, also known as I-80. Take exit 145 onto SR 224 South toward Kimball Junction. From downtown Park City, head south on UT-224 (also known as Main Street). Then, continue south on UT-224 and take the Marsac exit off the roundabout. Then, follow Marsac as it becomes Guardsman Pass Road.
What are popular starting points?
Guardsman Pass is a two-way road that can be accessed from Big Cottonwood Canyon or from Park City.
What seasons are best to visit?
Guardsman Pass is typically open from late spring through early fall, offering distinct seasonal experiences. Springtime visitors witness wildflower blooms, while autumn transforms the aspen trees into a display of golden yellow.
What’s the elevation?
Guardsman Pass’s elevation reaches 9,717 feet (2,962 meters).
Are there fees to drive on the byway?
There is no cost to drive Guardsman Pass. The adventure is completely free.
What types of vehicle restrictions are there?
The pass does not allow semi-trucks or other vehicles pulling trailers due to its narrow road and tight turns.
