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Tolcat Canyon

Salt Lake City

Wasatch Backcountry

Tolcat Canyon is the large and prominent chute that splits the N and S summits of Mount Olympus.

Ski Touring Difficult

Distance
4.3 km
Ascent
147 m
Descent
1.3 km
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
1.5 km
High Point
2.7 km
Gradient
49˚
Tolcat Canyon Map

Tolcat Canyon is the large chute visible from multiple locations in the Salt Lake City Valley. It takes a large snow year for this to fill in enough to ski it all the way to valley, but when snow is good it's a great run with excellent views of the whole valley below. To access, park at the Mount Olympus Trailhead on Wasatch Boulevard. Hike up the summer trail, past the gully and following the switchbacks. Once you're towards the top of the switchbacks cut to the N and drop into Tolcat Canyon. Skin up the canyon to the saddle.

Description

The chute starts at the saddle between the N and S summits of Mount Olympus. It drops in toward the city to the W. The slope angle is in the mid thirties and it continues for about a thousand feet until it mellows out. It continues down the gully and cuts left. From here you'll want to skin back up to the south through some trees and cut out of the gully. Next you'll ski a large open glade down to the summer trail. If there is enough snow you can keep skiing down the trail, or take your skis off and walk down the trail.

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

  • Skins

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