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GPS: 40.56883, -111.74168
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Shared By: Bobby Hanson on Apr 22, 2005 · Updates
Admins: Perin Blanchard, GRK, David Crane
Warning Access Issue: Gate Buttress Area Recreational Lease: Climbs on Church Buttress above vault remain closed DetailsDrop down

Description Suggest change

Home to the popular ice climb, The Great White Icicle, the area offers some decent rock routes as well. Mostly slab climbing with rock very similar in texture to Pentapitch.

Getting There Suggest change

Climbers Accessing the Great White IcicleRecent avalanche damage (2019) has completely erased the trail to this area. Expect some slogging through the debris with many downed trees and loose boulders. Aim for climber's right of the falls. 

For years ice and rock climbers have accessed the Great White Icicle and other south side areas by using the bridge and parking at the site of a small hydro-electric plant a couple of miles up Little Cottonwood Canyon. In 2010 the current owner, Cottonwood Hydro, was forced to remove the bridge during a flood event that threatened the plant. Since then Cottonwood Hydro has posted no trespassing and no parking signs to protect the plant operations and access to their private property.

As a responsible climber, you can help improve the SLCA’s relationship with Cottonwood Hydro. Do not trespass or block the area and avoid the no parking and hydro hazard areas. Keep off the pipe, intake structures, and dam at all times!

During times of low water access the south side of the creek by using the recommended cross- country route shown in the map.

During times of high water use one of the bridges along the Little Cottonwood Trail provided by Cottonwood Hydro in partnership with the USFS. Bridges are located approximately ½ mile upstream or ¾ mile downstream of this location. When possible carpool from a Park and Ride to conserve the limited, available parking. Thanks for your cooperation!

28 Total Climbs

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Classic Climbing Routes at Great White Icicle Area

Mountain Project's determination of the classic, most popular, highest rated climbing routes in this area.
More Classic Climbs in Great White Icicle Area »

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