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Backcountry Ski Suicide Chute on Mt. Superior

Sandy, Utah

5.0/5
based on 1 reviews

Details

Distance

0.6 miles

Elevation Gain

1245 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Eric Harris

Suicide Chute is a classic Wasatch backcountry route. This chute has very easy access and is steep and deep. The narrow couloir holds good snow long after storms.

First of all it's not as scary as it sounds, or as scary as it looks. That being said it's a steep chute in dangerous avalanche terrain so only experienced skiers with backcountry skiing knowledge/equipment should attempt this route.

Suicide Chute is located on the South face of Mt. Superior in Little Cottonwood Canyon. Park at Entry 4 at Snowbird and walk about 1/4 mile up the road where you will start your climb. Skin or hike up the Superior apron until you reach the base of Suicide Chute. The rest of the hike will be boot packing, and crampons can be helpful in the steeper parts of the chute. The slope angle varies, mostly in the 35-40° range.

Take in the views from the top, then enjoy an epic run through the chute, down Superior’s apron, and back to the road.

TIPS:
  • Get an early start and catch the sunrise from the top of the chute. It gets hit with morning sun so early birds are rewarded with the best snow.
  • This route is great in the Winter, but it can also be a lot of fun in the Spring and Fall. The couloir doesn't get a lot of sunlight so it holds snow long after the ski resorts close. I've heard of people skiing it in July.
  • Always check avalanche conditions before you go anywhere in the backcountry: https://utahavalanchecenter.org/advisory/salt-lake
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Features

Snowboarding
Photography
Skiing
Hiking
Easy Parking
Scenic

Backcountry Ski Suicide Chute on Mt. Superior Reviews

Very fun line to ride. I have seen people access this from the backside, where it gets rocky. Can be a good option, but I prefer going straight up the chute. Let's you check the snow conditions as you go. Be careful at the very top. Last time I went there was a huge cornice I had to crawl under, then climb up the side wall of. If it breaks, you will be taken for a dangerous ride... the sun seems to be in the chute around 8AM, give yourself ample time to climb and rest at the top. And enjoy the epic view!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Photograph Little Cottonwood Creek at Snowbird

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Cross Country Ski Alta Ski Area's Nordic Track

Hike Mt. Superior and Monte Cristo

Hike and Scramble Mount Superior