A primo, steep couloir, which is also a major terrain trap.

Statistics

0 - 1

hrs

11

m

688

m

42

max°

Difficulty

FATMAP difficulty grade

Severe

Description

Granite Canyon is comprised of numerous north facing couloirs, massive cliffs, technical terrain, and everything is steep.

Each run ends abruptly as you collide into Granite Creek at the bottom of the canyon.

GRANITE CANYON IS AVALANCHE TERRAIN.

Runs in this area are highly consequential, cell service is spotty, and it’s a long way back to civilization.

Please respect this area.

It is optimal to ski with partners with experience in technical terrain and who know the area.

Many lines appear to “go through,” but in fact, they close out with an enormous cliff drop.

Likewise, Granite Canyon is popular with seasoned experts as well as first timers; following tracks blindly may put you somewhere you do not belong.

Approach all terrain in Granite Canyon with extreme caution.

To exit Granite Canyon, follow the traverse paralleling the creek bottom heading east.

Gain height when possible (sidestepping, skating, and poling when necessary) until you round the corner of Apres Vous Mountain.

From the corner, continue the traverse southward, you should end up on a cat track leading through a housing development which will bring you back to the base of the resort.

CAUTION: the traverse out of Granite Canyon will place you in the bottom of numerous avalanche paths.

Be aware of overhead dangers, and choose resting spots wisely! To find the Air Force Chute, exit backcountry gate #6 as you would for Mile Long and Endless.

Head skier’s right along the rope line and ridge line.

You will follow the ridge until reaching a prominent shoulder, with a clearing in the trees on the north side.

This is the entrance to Air Force Chute.

Follow the gut down and be aware or avalanche start zones at the top of the line, as well as hazard from chutes to the skier’s left flushing debris above you.

Exit skier’s right onto the Granite Traverse.