Christmas Chute

Alyeska

An über classic couloir which is just calling out to be skied when seen from a distance

Freeride Skiing Severe

Distance: 888 m
Ascent: 0 m
Descent: 505 m

Low Point: 331 m
High Point: 837 m
Gradient: 48˚

Starting from the Glacier Bowl Express chairlift (formerly known as "Chair 6") this is an easy access steep freeride line which should be on the ticklist of any keen, adventurous skier.

Looking up the Glacier Bowl Express - the access lift for this line. Photo: Jon Konrath

Description

Ski down from the top of the Glacier Bowl Express chairlift straight into the line and enter the 45 degree chute. The line is about 40 feet wide but narrows in places to 15 feet before opening up again lower down.

Once out of the main couloir you can go left or right. Both options offer some fun tree skiing and the occasional little cliff drop too.

Eventually you will join up with the "Autobahn" run, which you follow to the foot of the Aerial Tram.

Difficulty

Severe

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

Low Exposure (E1)

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

Little chance of being seen or helped in case of an accident.