The Inquisition

THE biggest couloir of the area! Say no more.

Ski Touring Extreme

Distance: 4.3 km
Ascent: 1.4 km
Descent: 1.4 km
Duration: 4-5 hrs

Low Point: 0 m
High Point: 1.4 km
Gradient: 55˚

This monstrous couloir was another Andrew Maclean/Brad Barlage glory line, picked off from their pioneering ski trip to the area 2002. From the sea ice to the top of the line is nearly a whopping 1,550 meters vertical making it the biggest couloir in the area. It is truly a striking line and one of the most compelling south-facing couloirs in the area. Unlike most Baffin couloirs, it is not a fully continuous and clean line which adds to the challenge of successfully skiing this awesome line. Sustained for the most part at 40-45 degrees, the top steepens to 50 degrees in places. Iron Cross peak is located within reasonable striking distance of a basecamp situated nearby Ford Wall. Being south-east facing, the line is best skied in transformed spring snow and a very early start is needed.

The view across the way to sail peak, taken from the lower traverse.

Making a last turn before exiting skiers' left onto the ramp and traverse

Description

Around 150 meters before the line tops out on the summit plateau area of Iron Cross Peak, there is a small but steep rock step which is usually not passable without a short abseil. Climbing up this step may prove awkward depending on the snow buildup. Above this step, it should be possible to ski given good conditions.

Since the bottom 300 meters are un-skiable rock slabs, it is necessary to take the traverse to lookers’ right side of the couloir. Be sure to not be too late in the day re-crossing this section after skiing the line since the snow can quickly heat up on the rocks here. It might not always be possible to ski through this section without taking skis off to get back across the traverse and this will depend on the buildup of snow on the slabs. This therefore makes the couloir one of the more involved lines to ski in the area, but it is totally worth it!