A contrast of conditions in Grizzly Gulch

Grizzly Gulch, looking down Little Cottonwood Canyon. Photo: Jared Hargrave

After backcountry skiing in Grizzly Gulch twice in the last week, the difference in snow conditions was stark. The lack of snow, coupled with both sunny and cloudy days, wreaked havoc on the quality of the snowpack.

Skiing the recrystalized powder on Grizzly's south-facing slopes. Photo: Mason Diedrich

The first day was bluebird with fine, recrystalized powder that was days old. There were a few sun-crusted spots here and there, but mostly the turns were soft and buttery.

Mason Diedrich picks a fresh line, days after a storm. Photo: Jared Hargrave

One week later, despite a 6-inch snow day mid-week, Grizzly Gulch became a glaze of sun crust over all the south and west-facing slopes.

Adam Symonds busts through the crust in Grizzly Gulch. Photo: Jared Hargrave

What a difference a week makes, despite recent snowfall. A mere six inches was not enough to improve backcountry conditions, proving that Utah is again in desperate need for more snow.

On the ridge between Grizzly Gulch and Wolverine Cirque. Photo: Jared Hargrave

North facing slopes were still soft, however, and pockets of powder could be found in the trees. Both days were confirmation that even on low-snow years, backcountry skiing in Utah is good, even when it’s not so good. There’s simply nothing like being outside in the Wasatch with skis on your feet.

Tags: backcountry, Grizzly Gulch, Little Cottonwood Canyon, Outdoor, Skiing, trip report, Utah, Wasatch Mountains