North Ridge

One of the more exposed descents on Mount Mansfield. North Ridge is exactly what it sounds like, following the ridge of Mount Mansfield to true north, down to the Adam’s Apple. To access North Ridge, ascend via Climbing Gully, then continue north to the summit of Mansfield. Once at the summit, continue downhill to the north until you reach a fairly large cliff. The whole line comes into view now. In order to access the actual skiing, you have to down climb some nearly vertical rock. There is usually a flat spot to put your skis in formed by a boulder. Once you are down the cliff and your skis are on, you can begin making turns. The first part of the ridge is very steep and you only have a ski length of room, the ridge drops to either side very steeply, after your first few turns, you’ll reach a small cliff that can be skirted to skiers right. After this cliff, you have to option to drop down the open face to skiers right, or continue along the ridge. The ridge flattens out for a little, then drops steeply again, ending near the Adam’s Apple. From here you can continue north behind the Adam’s Apple to access Hellbrook. North Ridge is incrediblely steep and exposed, this line should only be attempted by experts.