September Trail Work in Little Cottonwood Canyon

On September 16th, multiple trail projects kicked off in Little Cottonwood Canyon. The Utah State Trail Crew, operated by the Utah Department of Natural Resources (DNR), focused on the Alpenbock Loop in lower Little Cottonwood Canyon, performing brush-back and light trail maintenance. They also worked on climbing trail access to areas like Bong Eater, Mexican Crack, The Coffin, and Hong Wall. These areas require constant upkeep due to the fast-growing scrub oak that thrives on the canyon's south-facing slopes. In addition to their trail work, the crew installed new climbing access signs for both bouldering and climbing areas. Keep an eye out for more wayfinding signage along the Alpenbock Loop soon!

On September 17th, the Cottonwood Canyons Foundation (CCF) began a five-week project at Gate Buttress. CCF is currently working on restoring the climbing access trail that was affected by the 2023 rockfall in the Beckey’s area. This rockfall destroyed the large staircase that led to the Dihedrals and East Gate areas. The crew is in the process of reestablishing the trail and connecting it with pre-existing features uncovered beneath the rubble. Please exercise caution when heading up to this area, as the rocks and soil remain unstable due to the ongoing work.

If you'd like to help out, all are welcome to join the Salt Lake Climbers Alliance (SLCA) and CCF for an Adopt-a-Crag event this Saturday at the Gate Buttress. For more information, click [here].