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Kirketaket

One of Norway's most popular ski touring mountains offers world class skiing

Ski Touring Difficult

Distance
13 km
Ascent
1.3 km
Descent
1.3 km
Duration
6-7 hrs
Low Point
184 m
High Point
1.4 km
Gradient
46˚
Kirketaket Map

Kirketaket is beautiful mountain seen from Isfjorden. In addition the south face may offer deep powder, which would be every skiers dream. But don't expect to be alone on a powder day, this mountain is popular!

Description

Start from the parking lot at Hellerøa. Follow the ski tracks to the north, right after the tracks crosses the river you will approach a crossroad - turn left. You may see a sign pointing out the direction to Kirketaket. You are now on the summer path to Måsvassbu and may see red markings. At 400 m.a.s.l. leave the path and head to the east towards the ridge of Steinberget.

Follow the ridge of Steinberget to the east through a flat section. Then there's a few meters down before the last climb up to Kirketaket. You will now see the fantastic south face of the mountain.

Follow the south west ridge to the summit. Some sections near the summit are steep - up to 38 degrees - so be sure to consider the avalanche danger. Also be aware of cornices along the west side of the ridge. At the summit you can enjoy a spectacular view over the summits surrounding Kirketaket and Isfjorden.

For the descent there are two alternatives. The first is to follow the ascent route. The second alternative is to ascend the south face of Kirketaket. This face offers 950 vertical meters of continuous skiing in fantastic terrain. This is also the first place people go skiing after snow fall, so make sure to start early! Just head right to the south in the middle of the face, and ski down to Kavlisætra. From here you can follow tracks from snowmobile down to the parking lot. This trip will not disappoint you!

Difficulty

Difficult

Serious gradient of 30-38 degrees where a real risk of slipping exists.

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

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between December and April

Features

  • Face
  • Alpine
  • Single Descent

Equipment required

  • Skins

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area