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Crack House

Blackcomb

Whistler

Whistler Blackcomb

Steep chute that negotiates itself around several cliffs with a mandatory air at the bottom.

Freeride Skiing Severe

Distance
832 m
Ascent
78 m
Descent
236 m
Low Point
2.1 km
High Point
2.4 km
Gradient
48˚
Crack House Map

Crack House is one of a few lines accessible from a short bootpack up onto the cliffs at the top of the Blackcomb Glacier. Once you've hiked up from Showcase T-Bar to the top of the glacier, follow the wind lip all the way to the cliffs on the other side, uphill of the backcountry gate. A harder bootpack than the one you will have just done, but the lines up here are totally worth it. Especially if you're looking for something steep, some fresh snow in the days following a powder day or just feel like working on your glutes.

Description

Once you've made the bootpack up, traverse around some rocks and continue along the rock ridge. You'll pass a notch, over the top, and the start of both Ladies First and Crack House is just in near the Permanent Closure fence. Depending on the snow you may have to carry your skis or board down and right. This will take you over some rocks.

Before you drop in, take a breath and admire the awesome views from up there! Crack House and Ladies First begin with the same chute but instead of following it right , ski down and left. There is a small break in the next band of cliffs. This is a mandatory air, the more you can get between the cliff the smaller it is but people have been known to huck right off the middle too. (Only recommended on a powder day!) Beware and look for traverse lines made from people accessing the backcountry gate. The line drops you back into Blackcomb Glacier, and from there it's worth following Husume Flank down.

Take crevasse rescue kit in your group. A minimum would be 30m ropes x 2, a long sling, 3 screwgate karabiners, prussiks and an ice screw.

Difficulty

Severe

Steep skiing at 38-45 degrees. This requires very good technique and the risk of falling has serious consequences.

Medium Exposure (E2)

2 out of 4

As well as the slope itself, there are some obstacles (such as rock outcrops) which could aggravate injury.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between December and March

Features

  • Cliffs
  • Glacier
  • Walk Required

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area