Little Blue Couloir
A cool-looking chute on the saddle between Paiute Peak and Mt. Audubon.
Ski Touring Severe
- Distance
- 576 m
- Ascent
- 3 m
- Descent
- 231 m
- Duration
- 0-1 hrs
- Low Point
- 3.6 km
- High Point
- 3.8 km
- Gradient
- 41˚
This is a popular ski touring route which is generally considered to be severe. It's very remote, it features medium exposure (e2) and is typically done between April and June. From a low point of 3.6 km to the maximum altitude of 3.8 km, the route covers 576 m, 3 vertical metres of ascent and 231 vertical metres of descent. It's graded 3.3 and Labande grade 4. You'll need skins and crampons to complete it safely.
Description
Though short, the walled-in feeling makes this feel much bigger than it is. From Little Blue Lake, head straight north to the obvious inset chute. Climb what you ski. This can in theory be approached from Mt. Audubon, but it would be on dry rock in ski boots so you be the judge.
Difficulty
Severe
Steep skiing at 38-45 degrees. This requires very good technique and the risk of falling has serious consequences.
Medium Exposure (E2)
As well as the slope itself, there are some obstacles (such as rock outcrops) which could aggravate injury.
Remoteness
Little chance of being seen or helped in case of an accident.
Best time to visit
Features
- Alpine
- Couloir
- Single Descent
- Ski Mountaineering
Equipment required
- Skins
- Crampons