Backcountry skiing the Whipple couloir is a classic Wasatch ski descents. Getting there and finding it isn't straight forward but you'll be rewarded if you do. With some of the most unique and visually stunning scenery in the Wasatch the Whipple Couloir could be the most scenic of all the classic descents.
Access
First, you have to find the trailhead. It's hidden up top of Residential Neighborhoods. Finding the trail isn't that difficult, but it isn't obvious either
Next, the approach is long and low. The approach starts at a low elevation. Often times you will be hiking instead of skinning from the trailhead. The Whipple Couloir is best accessed via Thomas Fork in Neff's Canyon. Accessing it from the Big Cottonwood involves hideous bushwhacking. Skiing Neffs Canyon means you'll have to climb a long way to access good skiing.
Backcountry skiing the Whipple Couloir is not for sissies! You gotta be strong because it's steep, rocky, and somewhat narrow. The Couloir is south facing, making it more affected by day time heating and the associated avalanche dangers. After you're done skiing it, you have to climb back up it to get out. The good news, you'll likely be able to skin back up the couloir to get out. This saves a lot of time and effort compared to boot packing. If you access it from the BIG Cottonwood Canyon you're in for some miserable bushwhacking. My recommendation is to get fit, then attempt it early in the day from Neffs Canyon.
Backcountry skiing the Whipple couloir
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