Crater Couloir
Nederland
Another cornice-capped couloir off the Continental Divide.
Ski Touring Severe
- Distance
- 1 km
- Ascent
- 8 m
- Descent
- 290 m
- Duration
- 0-1 hrs
- Low Point
- 3.4 km
- High Point
- 3.6 km
- Gradient
- 39˚
Very similar to Icebox Express in aspect, steepness, and the fact that it forms a cornice at the top. Climbing the line is recommended, which can be done from the Upper Crater Lake Cirque, approached via the Crater Lakes Trail. Head east from the lake, going up the obvious inset couloir.
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
Away from help but easily accessed.
Best time to visit
Features
- Alpine
- Couloir
- Single Descent
- Ski Mountaineering
Equipment required
- Skins
- Ice axe
- Crampons