In 1972, Charlie and Dwight Butler founded Wasatch Touring, a shop focused on backcountry skiing as an alternative to inbound resort skiing. In 1976, the Butlers and their first full time employee, Riley Cutler, made the transition from a winter season store to a year-round business. The Wasatch Mountains and Wasatch Touring were at the center of backcountry skiing, kayaking, mountaineering and cycling during their infancy. As a result, Wasatch Touring has become synonymous with ski touring, mountain biking, whitewater kayaking, alpine climbing, and desert backpacking. As these sports have become more popular, Wasatch Touring has grown and continues to take part in the evolution of these sports.