Wildflower Festival will be offering guided..

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Indian paintbrush, larkspur and milkweed will be on full display July 26-28 when the annual Wasatch Wildflower Festival is held at ski resorts in the Cottonwood canyons.

Members of the nonprofit Cottonwood Canyons Foundation will provide guided tours all three days for hikers of all ages and abilities. "The festival is a wonderful opportunity to learn about Utah's unique ecology from local naturalists," said foundation director Jessie Walthers.

The festival begins Friday morning at Brighton Resort, then moves over to Solitude Mountain Resort in the afternoon. The scene shifts to Alta Ski Area on Saturday and Snowbird Ski & Summer Resort on Sunday.

At each location, Walthers noted, guides will lead hikes ranging from easy to challenging, lasting from 45 minutes to four hours. A complete schedule is available at www.wasatchwildflowerfestival.org/schedules.htm.

She said hikers should bring water, sturdy shoes, snacks, sun protection and layers of clothing for hiking at altitude in variable weather conditions. Walks involving a chairlift or tram ride require a $5 contribution to the foundation.

Alta Community Enrichment and the U.S. Forest Service also are festival sponsors.

Mike Gorrell

Wildflower Festival will be offering guided tours