Quarry Mountain
Distance: <1 mile
Elevation Gain: 738 feet
Summit Elevation: 7,418 feet
Access: Paved
There is nothing too special about Quarry Mountain. But, with its quick access off the highway between I-80 and Park City, it is an easy grab. For peakbaggers, this little peak will bug you because you'll see it often. Views from the top are limited because of trees and communication towers. I did run into a herd of elk near the summit and that was something cool.
The Route:
WillhiteWeb.com
Access:
Take the Kimball Junction exit off I-80 toward Park City. As you're heading south on Highway 224 you'll see Quarry Mountain on your left with the towers on top. On the north side of the highway is a parking area for cross-country skiers and other recreationalists. No fees to park. There is a higher road access to the summit from a neighborhood on the east side but no trespassing signs were present.
Point your snowshoes toward the top and start hiking. There is some minor scrub oak to deal with but it does not last too long. Near the summit, you will be under a nice canopy of trees. For various views, walk around the fenced communication towers.
This looks worse than it was
The summit from the trailhead parking lot
Morning light at the parking lot
Looking South to Iron Mountain
Looking north from the summit to Lewis Peak, a 2000+ prominence peak
Quarry Mountain from PC Hill
Looking northwest
Looking down to the parking area
Looking to the west
Communications at the summit