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Hourglass

Crystal Mountain

This popular, wide-open chute is one of the easiest couloirs on the north side of the King.

Freeride Skiing Difficult

Distance
281 m
Ascent
0 m
Descent
185 m
Low Point
1.9 km
High Point
2.1 km
Gradient
38˚
Hourglass Map

Hourglass is thus named as it starts wide, narrows slightly in the middle and opens wide again on the lower half. Even at its narrowest point, Hourglass is still plenty wide to link turns. This is an excellent chute for those attempting the north side of the King for the first time. This is a consistent 600 vertical feet to the upper base of Avalanche Basin. It is possible to traverse above the bottom of the basin to Damn Fine Forest for another 400 vertical feet. Alternatively, find the groomed outrun to the base of Chair 6 for another lap.

Difficulty

Difficult

Serious gradient of 30-38 degrees where a real risk of slipping exists.

Low Exposure (E1)

1 out of 4

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

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Features

  • Cliffs
  • Walk Required

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area