FATMAP by Strava

West Gully

A rarely skied line that melts out very quickly.

Ski Touring Severe

Distance
393 m
Ascent
0 m
Descent
273 m
Duration
0-1 hrs
Low Point
1.2 km
High Point
1.5 km
Gradient
45˚
West Gully Map

West Gully requires a lot of snow to be skiable, and even then it's a serious undertaking. A large cliff and a tricky exit present a fall hazard and a terrain trap. It's aspect also makes it one of the first to melt out as well. If you do happen to find West Gully in condition, the best approach is to climb from below. Start by skiing a steep, narrowing gully with 2 possible entrances. The gully soon cliffs out. Traverse skiers right through vegetation to skirt the cliff, then ski through an open runout to the floor of the ravine. This line requires near perfect conditions and a good snowpack to be skiable, and being a long way from the road, it's better to be cautious than chance it.

Difficulty

Severe

Steep skiing at 38-45 degrees. This requires very good technique and the risk of falling has serious consequences.

High Exposure (E3)

3 out of 4

In case of a fall, death is highly likely.

Remoteness

3 out of 4

Little chance of being seen or helped in case of an accident.

Best time to visit

between February and March

Features

  • Alpine
  • Cliffs
  • Couloir
  • Tree Skiing
  • Single Descent
  • Ski Mountaineering

Equipment required

  • Skins
  • Ice axe
  • Crampons