Description

This is a great way to ski from the summit of a prominent peak in the heart of the Sellrain valley.

The couloir itself can actually be seen on the drive up to the Kühtai so take some time to spot it on your way to the ski area. Start by riding the Dreiseenbahn chairlift and then skiing very briefly down the Dreiseen piste.

Branch left off this and go directly east into the valley leading up to the imposing looking Gaiskogelscharte col.

Put skins on and skin straight up to the col.

The final section of the ascent to the col is quite steep and will involve either some tricky kick turns or 10 minutes or so of bootpacking.

From the col turn left and bootpack/scramble up the fun and easy south ridge of the Gaiskogel.

The ridge is exposed in places and involves some scrambling but it's never difficult and you'll be able to enjoy the ambience of moving up and through some beautiful mountains. Once on top, take a moment to look down at Kühtai ski area and then drop due north into the very narrow couloir that leaves directly from the summit.

The couloir is initially only a couple of metres wide but it quickly widens and then, after about 100 vertical metres it disperses into a large slope below.

Ski the slope and follow it as it naturally takes you rightwards into a wide, mellow valley.

Ski the valley wherever the snow looks best and then, as it begins to roll over into steeper terrain, push out right into trees and down a fun little gully. At the foot of the gully you reach a river.

Turn right and follow the river to a bridge, which in turn leads you back onto the road from Kühtai.

Walk down to the bus stop in Haggen village and catch the bus either back to Kühtai or down to Innsbruck.