UDOT crews work to clear Guardsman Pass, no spring opening date set

PARK CITY — Utah Department of Transportation crews are still working to remove snow from Guardsman Pass. 

Two videos shared to X by UDOT Cottonwood Canyons showed piles of snow being pushed from roads on Monday, May 5. No spring opening date has been set, yet. 

🚧Guardsman Pass SR-190 update:
💪@utahtransportation 233 crew making progress today!

‼️There is NO opening date/time determined yet, but we will share that information as soon as we have it.‼️ pic.twitter.com/QEXr3Ho0xk

— UDOT Cottonwood Canyons (@UDOTcottonwoods) May 5, 2025

According to UDOT’s website, Guardsman Pass, which connects Big Cottonwood Canyon to Park City and Heber Valley, is often closed from November until May or June. Seasonal closures occur to account for heavy snowfall in the canyons. 

According to UDOT Cottonwood Canyons’ Instagram account, crews began clearing the road on May 1. Although 65% of the snow has been cleared, some portions of the road are still buried under as much as 11 feet of snow. 

Recreation near Guardsman Pass

The paved road climbs to 9,717 feet in elevation, offering stunning mountain and bird’s eye views of the valleys below. Furthermore, it is teeming with opportunities to hike and mountain bike. 

For example, the Blood’s Lake trail is a moderately challenging, 2.8-mile trail ending at a small Alpine lake. Visit in the early summer to view wildflowers, in the summer to take a swim in the cool waters, or in the fall to take in the hues of autumn leaves. 

Although dogs can use the trail, they are prohibited from entering the lake, per AllTrails. 

Lackwaxen Lake is accessed from the same trailhead, offering a farther, but still swimmable lake. Consider packing lunch and picnicking when you reach your destination. On this trail, especially near the lakes, bugs are prevalent. Ensure you pack bug spray to avoid getting bitten. 

Jupiter Peak is also accessible from the Blood’s Lake trailhead parking lot. When embarking on this hike, head east instead of southwest. The 4.3 mile round trip hike is moderately challenging and rewards hikers with a view looking out over the ski slopes of Park City Mountain Resort. 

Cycling the pass

Cycling along Guardsman Pass Road is also a popular activity, although it is not an easy route. The road’s 8.5% gradient is steep, accounting for an elevation gain of 3,937 feet in just 8 miles, per Casago. Some may be in for the grueling challenge, motivated by the stunning views from Guardsman Pass Overlook at the top. 

According to TrailForks, the 32-mile Wasatch Back Loop is also accessible from Guardsman Pass. The strenuous, mountain bike-only route leads riders through the scenic views of the area. 

Before heading out on any mountain adventure, make sure to pack plenty of water, food, and sunscreen. Share your plans and estimated return time with someone who won’t be joining you. 

More recreation reading: Spring hiking is arriving in Utah. Use these tips to have fun during mud season