Mount Olympus is the impressive peak just above the east side of Salt Lake City. Although it is so close to the city, it offers long moderate routes with a great alpine feel. The West Slabs are located on the right side of the huge face, and provides one of the longest moderate rock climbing adventure found in the Wasatch. The views of the Salt Lake Valley and the Great Salt Lake are simply incredible.

Approaching, climbing, and descending this long, low angle route requires at least half a day, and might be an all day affair for some parties. Even if this is a moderate and low angle route, it’s still a committing alpine climb. Expect sparse and thin protection, and check the weather forecast before you go.

The West Slabs ascends the center of the huge face and can almost be climbed anywhere, which allows endless variation possibilities. Recently, some bolted anchors have been added to this route, which can provide a more straightforward and surprisingly quick and clean descent if you don’t want to do the loose walk-off. The West Slabs can be climbed by using these bolted anchors, or by building your own anchors, or a combination of both. The first part of the route provides the steepest climbing sections up a slick slab, which then leads up to a super fun and more featured face with a few small roof sections. After that, the angle kicks back and quality face climbing on solid rock brings you all the way up to the ridge.

The West Slabs are a great place to practice speed climbing and/or simul climbing if you plan on getting on longer alpine climbs. It’s a great place to bring someone on their first multi-pitch climb. It is also a great and very popular solo route for experienced climbers looking for a quick workout.