Climbing and Skiing Denali - America's Biggest Adventure

The highest peak in North America has some of the best ski lines in the World - here's how to do them.

Charlie Boscoe

Images

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Top of the line.

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Amazing views near the entrance to the Messner.

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Summit with the Solis skis.

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Shredding in the middle of the line.

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Chalky wind effected snow but still fun.

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The line.

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Looking down the top of the line.

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Rocky and steep at the top but it soon opens out.

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On the ridge between the fixed ropes and High camp.

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Skinning up to the base of the Orient from 14k Camp.

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Looking down from halfway.

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Shredding pow near the bottom.

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Approaching the top of the line.

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Looking towards the Messner and Orient from 14k Camp.

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A little break from sled hauling between Camp 1 and 11k Camp.

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The incredible view of Mt. Foraker from 14k Camp.

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Hanging out at Basecamp\.

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Scenes at Basecamp

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On route to Camp 1.

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On the summit finally.

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First pair of Black Crows Solis skis on top of Denali?

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The ridge leading to 17k Camp.

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Pig Hill and the summit as viewed from the Football Field.

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On the way up.

Description

For many climbers, simply reaching the summit of Denali is a lifetime goal, and understandably so. The mountain is the highest point in North America and the journey to the top is long, cold and tough. Only those with plenty of determination need apply.

For the truly elite, there is also the option to ski from the summit via a number of different routes, all of which are steep, serious and wild. In this guidebook are details of the Messner Couloir, Orient Express and Rescue Gully - the ultimate Denali ski ticklist. There's also a full route description of how to reach the summit from the Kahiltna basecamp at the foot of the mountain, and details of a very adventurous ski line which can be used as acclimatisation for the trip up Denali.

So, you're all out of excuses. Book the ticket and get training!

Adventures

Messner Couloir

The most sought after ski line on Denali and one of North America's most classic steep ski descents.

Rescue Gully

A short but steep couloir acts as a shortcut to the lower West Buttress

West Buttress

The classic and most popular route to the top of North America.