Trip Report: Snowshoe: Soapstone via Iron Mine (Uintas)


Snowshoe: Soapstone via Iron Mine (Uintas)
By Gail Coates and Kathleen Waller
SNOWSHOE 02/22/2026 NTD+
Trip Report: Snowshoe/Ski to Soapstone Mountain via Iron Mine Trail (Uintas)
February 22, 2026



With SR35 open and avalanche terrain firmly off the menu, our groups gathered at Nobletts ready for a winter snowshoe and backcountry up the Iron Mine Trail toward Soapstone Mountain (9469 ft). The plan was simple: an out and back at a steady, inclusive pace with a firm 1:30 pm turnaround time. No set mileage, no pressure to reach a specific destination, just a good day in the mountains.


The ski group's original objective had been in avalanche terrain that had slid two days earlier. A wise pivot brought everyone together for a safer alternative, and it made for a fun and energetic combined outing.


We began by heading directly up the hill via the Chevron crude pipe cut (not gently and not gradually, just up). The skiers, along with two enthusiastic snowshoers, took the lead and formed an efficient trail breaking crew. Their efforts made a noticeable difference. The rest of us followed in a second group, grateful beneficiaries of their hard work, moving at a conversational pace and taking in the beauty of the forest.


The climb was steady, steep, and persistent enough to make everyone reevaluate their life choices at least once. The higher we went, the more the views opened up, and the effort quickly felt worthwhile. At the top, we celebrated properly with snow angels, a snow depth check that came in at nearly half a Waller, and a round of motivational snacks and beverages that felt essential.


After soaking it in, we turned around and enjoyed the descent. For a brief and shining moment, the snowshoers held their own and even managed to outpace the skiers (held up by a necessary waxing session). That advantage did not last long. Once the skiers got waxed and organized, they disappeared through the trees and downhill. The snowshoers did not see them again.


All in all, it was a beautiful, peaceful day in the Uintas. Smart decisions, strong trail breakers, solid climbing legs, and just enough friendly competition to keep things interesting. A successful outing by every measure, even the diner stop where we ran into Mike Berry's Nordic crew and started planning our next outing.