FATMAP by Strava

Qua Lake Trees

Excellent steep tree skiing which is possible in bad visibility

Ski Touring Severe

Distance
7.1 km
Ascent
908 m
Descent
907 m
Duration
4-5 hrs
Low Point
1.6 km
High Point
2 km
Gradient
38˚
Qua Lake Trees Map

If you get these lines in stable conditions then you're in for a treat - they feature some steep tree skiing in a spectacular spot perched high above Qua Lake.

Description

The day starts with a traverse across to the steep-ish slope down to Qua Lake. It adds a transition to your day, but doing this traverse with skins on is easier than trying to push/pole it. Once above the lake, rip skins and enjoy some excellent tree skiing down en route down to the shore.

Put skins on again and cross the lake before making the steep and - at times - technical ascent up a heavily tree-d shoulder. There are some sections of the ascent which pass through serious avalanche terrain, and parts of it also enjoy a view down onto your descent routes.

The first descent we've shown is down a steep face directly above Qua Lake. The skiing is fabulous, but at around 40 degrees, the slope is a prime location for an avalanche so only commit to it if you're as sure as you can be that conditions are stable.

Once back down at the lake, reascend your skin track and then follow the blunt ridge crest which leads to a less densely tree-d gully. Rip down the gully - which is longer but mellower than the first run - and then skin back to the lake, and continue on up to the Ymir Lodge.

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

4 out of 4

In the high mountains or remote conditions, all individuals must be completely autonomous in every situation.

Best time to visit

between January and April

Features

  • Bowl
  • Alpine
  • Tree Skiing
  • Ski Mountaineering

Equipment required

  • Skins

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area