Pfeifferhorn — Local services in Alpine

Summiting The Pfeifferhorn (often called the "Little Matterhorn") is an absolute bucket-list hike in the Wasatch, offering some of the most incredible panoramic views of the entire range and both Salt Lake and Utah valleys. This isn't a casual stroll, but for those prepared, it's an immensely rewarding experience.

Starting from Red Pine Lake, the trail to the Pfeifferhorn summit is undeniably steep and requires solid hiking and potentially some light scrambling skills. While the main trail to Red Pine Lake is a good warm-up, the section from Red Pine Lake up to the ridge and the summit is where the real work begins. Expect consistent, steep elevation gain (the total gain from the trailhead is around 3,500-3,800 feet over approximately 10-11 miles round-trip).

The "scrambling" typically involves navigating over large boulders and a rocky, exposed ridge towards the top. While not highly technical, it requires sure footing and comfort with heights. Some find the final push to the summit to be the steepest and most challenging.

From the parking lot, you should budget about 6-10 hours round-trip for this hike. While ambitious hikers might complete it in 4-6 hours of moving time, factoring in breaks, lunch at Red Pine Lake, and time on the summit, a full day is a more realistic expectation for most. Starting early is crucial, not just for parking, but also to allow ample time and to avoid afternoon thunderstorms common...

Extremely arduous hike that is equally rewarding; this is rated as a hard hike and is not bluffing. I initially intended to only hike the red pine lake trail but met with the happy hiker who was going to Pfeifferhorn; which is along the same trail. This was my first attempt at both and I'm glad I packed lunch and extra water...it will be needed. To get to Pfeifferhorn follow the red pine lake trail. Once at the red pine lake journey left (a trail should be visible to your left and may have others using it). Unfortunately the trail is almost non-existent through the forest just continue upward and straight, veering only slightly right if necessary, until you reach a second lake at the top. From the lake go right and up the mountain side; there is a trail. Once at the top of the mountain side breathe and hydrate. 2 options from here: to your left is Mt. Baldy and to your right Pfeifferhorn peak. The last portion of Pfeifferhorn is where the real challenge begins, extreme elevation and rock scrabbling...way legs were on fire, remember to pace yourself, hydrate, and recognize you've come this far let's finish... you've got this! NOTE: Google maps takes you 0.5 miles away from the parking structure for Red pine lake trail, just continue and the entrance is on your right also several cars....

First and foremost, bug spray! Second, also bug spray! Now for the review. This was an absolutely incredible hike. Start at the parking lot for White Pine Lake, the bridge has been mostly repaired and there are pit toilets available. Parking lot was 3/4 full at 0645 on a Monday morning, so get there early and beat the heat. Speaking of heat, I recommend at least 3L of water and some solid snacks. This hike is strenuous! There are a couple fresh water spots to fill early on but definitely nothing past Red Pines Lake.

Speaking of past Red Pines Lake, the trail to the top is sketchy at best. All Trails has the best map to follow in my opinion and you should be able to pick your way through with some degree of success. Take your time and mind your footing. Take breaks as needed and just keep going. Spoiler alert, you CANNOT see the top of Pfefferhorn from Red Pines Lake, so don't fool yourself into thinking that's the top. It's not!

Overall I showed this being about 10 miles roundtrip. Some sites say 9+ but plan for 10. The elevation gain is ~3700' over 5 miles. So plan for about 700' per mile 🥵. The bouldering and scrambling are also no joke. Enjoy this amazing trail...