FATMAP by Strava

Virginia Slims

Park City and Deer Valley

Salt Lake City

Wasatch Backcountry

Virginia Slims is the fun dogleg chute next to the more popular Old Growth chute in the lower reaches of Cardiff Fork.

Ski Touring Difficult

Distance
871 m
Ascent
0 m
Descent
472 m
Duration
0-1 hrs
Low Point
2.5 km
High Point
3 km
Gradient
53˚
Virginia Slims Map

To approach Virginia Slims park at the Cardiff Fork trailhead halfway up Big Cottownwood Canyon on the S side of the road. Follow the trail and road grade up the canyon. There is a popular trail to Doughnut Falls that branches left, but stay to the right and continue up the valley. You'll cross some open avalanche paths and then duck back into the trees. After this you'll come to a large mine tailing with a creek running past it. Cross the creek and follow the trail a short bit then break off to your left (E) and into the trees. You may have to do a little zigging and zagging to get a visual on the chute, but head up towards the cliff wall and it will reveal itself off the Reed and Benson Ridge. Boot up the chute and then enjoy the turns right back down.

Description

Virginia Slims starts off with a potentially brushy entry, but don't be afraid to persevere and drop in, the goods are lower down. Stay to your left and wrap around some huge trees then cut quickly back to you right and you'll see the chute itself. Drop in and enjoy the short, but playful steeps. Make sure to cut left on the exit ramp that drops you right near the exit to Old Growth Chute. You might as well hike up and ski it as well since you're in the neighborhood.

Difficulty

Difficult

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

High Exposure (E3)

3 out of 4

In case of a fall, death is highly likely.

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
  • Cliffs
  • Walk Required

Equipment required

  • Skins

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area