hike: bear canyon trail from mutual dell to base of cold fusion - February 7, 2026
The purpose of this hike is learn trail conditions for the approach to Cold Fusion couloir and to get eyes (with binoculars) on Cold Fusion couloir for a potential and future ski/mountaineering outing this season. Plan will be to meet at the pullout just before the pay station for American Fork Canyon and drive some vehicles to the small parking spot outside the gate of the Mutual Dell campground. We are allowed to walk through the campground to the Bear Canyon trailhead. Bear Canyon trail is 2 miles up with 1800 feet of gain. In the past, I have had to step over downed trees and have encountered muddy conditions, punchy snow, and patches of ice on this trail. Bear Canyon trail intercepts Timpooneke Road (dirt forest road) that we will follow for 2 more miles. In the past I have encountered a mix of dirt, mud, and punchy snow. I hope to get eyes on Cold Fusion but I do not plan to ascend any part of Cold Fusion on this scouting hike. Please bring footwear appropriate for possible dirt, mud, snow, and ice. And please bring a great attitude for this exploratory mission.
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