Cirque Central
With tons of variations, this is the longest line in the Mt. Audubon Cirque.
Ski Touring Severe
- Distance
- 669 m
- Ascent
- 13 m
- Descent
- 266 m
- Duration
- 0-1 hrs
- Low Point
- 3.5 km
- High Point
- 3.8 km
- Gradient
- 35˚
This is a popular ski touring route which is generally considered to be severe. It's very remote, it features low exposure (e1) and is typically done between March and May. From a low point of 3.5 km to the maximum altitude of 3.8 km, the route covers 669 m, 13 vertical metres of ascent and 266 vertical metres of descent. It's graded 3.1 and Labande grade 5. You'll need skins, ice axe and crampons to complete it safely.
Description
This melts out fast, so get it earlier in the spring. It's found at the back of the cirque, approached by going west from the first switchback on the Mt. Audubon Trail. Climb what you ski.
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.
Best time to visit
Features
- Alpine
- Couloir
- Ski Mountaineering
Equipment required
- Skins
- Ice axe
- Crampons