FATMAP by Strava

Beacon Peak East Face

Nederland

A classic line often skied in the early spring.

Ski Touring Difficult

Distance
1.2 km
Ascent
0 m
Descent
410 m
Duration
0-1 hrs
Low Point
3.3 km
High Point
3.7 km
Gradient
29˚
Beacon Peak East Face Map

This is a popular ski touring route which is generally considered to be difficult. It's remote, it features low exposure (e1) and is typically done between March and May. From a low point of 3.3 km to the maximum altitude of 3.7 km, the route covers 1.2 km, 0 vertical metres of ascent and 410 vertical metres of descent. It's graded 3.1 and Labande grade 3. You'll need skins to complete it safely.

Description

Since this is the easiest (and safest, debatably) line on Beacon Peak, it makes a good early spring descent. Just below the Upper Forest Lakes, make a left-hand turn and head up the obvious face. Ski what you climb, or consider the chutes to skier's left.

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 March and May

Features

  • Face
  • Alpine
  • Tree Skiing
  • Single Descent
  • Ski Mountaineering

Equipment required

  • Skins