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Y Couloir

Salt Lake City

Wasatch Backcountry

Probably the longest, most consistent rock-lined chute in the Wasatch if you're into that sort of thing.

Ski Touring Severe

Distance
1.7 km
Ascent
20 m
Descent
993 m
Duration
0-1 hrs
Low Point
2 km
High Point
2.9 km
Gradient
45˚
Y Couloir Map

The Y Couloir is a mega classic roadside attraction in Little Cottonwood Canyon. What's not to love with over 3,000 feet of engaging turns on a consistent pitch in the 40 degree range.

Description

To access, park at the pull-out on your right 2.7 miles up Little Cottonwood Canyon, follow the road down to the river, find a good crossing and head towards the apron. Boot right up the sucker, but most likely the booter will be in.

This is a very popular run with incredibly easy access, so don't plan on being alone and be aware of other skiing above and below you. If the way isn't clear, you'll want to take the first right branch, then the next left and that will lead you into the gut. There is some great steep tree skiing in the upper headwall to the skiers left if the center chute is all tracked out. Gaining the ridge can be a real bear since the snow is usually just facets on rock, but it's fun to get up there and gain the view. You can also use this as access to Coalpit Headwall, just continue along the ridge towards the S.

Difficulty

Severe

Steep skiing at 38-45 degrees. This requires very good technique and the risk of falling has serious consequences.

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

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between February and May

Features

  • Trees
  • Cliffs

Equipment required

  • Skins
  • Crampons

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area