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Handrail

Kirkwood

Lake Tahoe

Extremely narrow spine and rocky area just above the flats of Thunder Saddle

Freeride Skiing Difficult

Distance
397 m
Ascent
0 m
Descent
129 m
Low Point
2.5 km
High Point
2.6 km
Gradient
29˚
Handrail Map

This is a popular freeride skiing route which is generally considered to be difficult. It's remote, it features medium exposure (e2) and is typically done between November and April. From a low point of 2.5 km to the maximum altitude of 2.6 km, the route covers 397 m, 0 vertical metres of ascent and 129 vertical metres of descent. It's graded 3.2 and Labande grade 4.

Description

Extremely narrow ridge line between two gullies of the lowest section of the Thunder Saddle Area. It has cliffs on both sides and widens as you make your descent down this very technical line.

Difficulty

Difficult

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

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

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between November and April

Features

  • Trees
  • Cliffs

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area