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Disease Ridge Ski Touring

Blackcomb

Whistler

Whistler Blackcomb

Blackcomb's Most Popular Yo-Yo Turns

Ski Touring Moderate

Distance
9.3 km
Ascent
1.4 km
Descent
1.4 km
Duration
5-6 hrs
Low Point
1.6 km
High Point
2.1 km
Gradient
38˚
Disease Ridge Ski Touring Map

The gloomily named Disease Ridge perhaps has it’s name to discourage hordes of resort skiers from making their way to this well known powder stash. Located just beyond the 7th Heaven chairlift the ridge is fairly short with mostly tree skiing to be found between patches of alpine conifers. Due to the trees it’s often considered a good spot to ride when the light is poor and the avalanche risk is high.

Description

Because of it’s location a pass of some kind is required to ski here. Backcountry passes are available from guest services provided you can show them your avalanche equipment. Prices vary each year.

A small track just off the runs Cloud Nine and Sluiceway and wanders 200m through the trees to the open bowl. On lookers left is the ridge. Skinning up the ridge is the easiest line. From here you can drop in and ski through the trees. There isn’t any one good route, one must look for the gaps in the trees and unclaimed snow. The return is back to 7th Heaven and out along the flats.

Difficulty

Moderate

Slopes become slightly steeper at around 25-30 degrees.

Low Exposure (E1)

1 out of 4

Exposure is limited to that of the slope itself. Getting hurt is still likely if the slope is steep and/or the snow is hard.

Remoteness

1 out of 4

Close to help in case of emergency.

Best time to visit

between January and April

Features

  • Bowl
  • Alpine
  • Tree Skiing

Equipment required

  • Skins

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area