FATMAP by Strava

Major Tom Approach

Salt Lake City

Wasatch Backcountry

The approach to Major Tom starts at the Neff's Canyon trailhead and follows the canyon up until it branches into Thomas Fork and then reaches the ridge line.

Ski Touring Difficult

Distance
998 m
Ascent
341 m
Descent
13 m
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
2.6 km
High Point
2.9 km
Gradient
38˚
Major Tom Approach Map

To access the Major Tom couloir, park at the Neff's Canyon trailhead in Olympus Cove. Follow the old road grade up into the canyon and take the left branch to head up into the main drainage of Neff's. The trail is narrow with overhanging trees and opens up into a junction. Take the path to the right into the woods and into Thomas Fork. There is an old summer trail you can follow that gains a sub ridge, and follows it into the upper reaches of the canyon. Once you enter the upper bowl of Thomas Fork, continue to the S, winding up through the pine forest cutting switchbacks until you gain the ridge. From there head E along the ridge keeping an eye on the S slopes, until you come to what is clearly the start to the chute.

Description

Difficulty

Difficult

Serious gradient of 30-38 degrees where a real risk of slipping exists.

Medium Exposure (E2)

2 out of 4

As well as the slope itself, there are some obstacles (such as rock outcrops) which could aggravate injury.

Remoteness

4 out of 4

In the high mountains or remote conditions, all individuals must be completely autonomous in every situation.

Best time to visit

between January and May

Features

  • Trees
  • Walk Required

Equipment required

  • Rope
  • Skins

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