The Wire

This majestic and insanely long couloir can be seen from several upper-mountain areas at Telluride and can be accessed by exiting one of the several backcountry gates at the resort (the best one to take to access this couloir would be one found in the Gold Hill Hike Area). Then follow Bear Creek up a bowl that'll take you to the backside of the peak that houses this couloir. A short ridge-walk later and you're right above this couloir. Contrary to what you'd expect, this line actually holds snow very well and can be "doable" in even the worst seasons. Double is the key word as with the extreme exposure, sheer tightness, and insane length you have a recipe for one of the most insane lines in the world. Turning in this couloir is next to impossible but it's a necessity as straight-lining it is nothing short of suicide. Upon exiting the couloir you'll likely be greeted by some untouched powder and some fun cliffs and gullies to play around in. If you do follow continue to follow Bear Creek, you'll eventually return back to the town of Telluride and you would have earned ultimate bragging rights. The point? If you're not a professional free skier confident of your abilities, then don't even think of coming close to this line. There are plenty of other great lines in Telluride Backcountry that don't require you to gamble with your life. Just admire this one from a distance as it is a truly incredible line!