Description

Apart from its share of the Lake Tahoe Basin, Nevada doesn't get much credit as a backcountry ski destination.

Those who do cast their gaze into the Great Basin most often end up looking at Lamoille Canyon (and for good reason).

Well, after you have skied Terminal Cancer, I recommend heading south towards Pearl Peak.

Like much of the Great Basin, this landscape will blow you away with its endless views, distinctive ecology, and spectacular relief.

This is a big tour but access is easy, almost roadside. Follow the rolling ridge lying north of the peak and wake up your legs with a short descent through a grove of ancient bristlecone pines (ever skied between 2,000 year old trees?).

Make your way to the saddle north of the summit, and top out before dropping into the stunning Necklace Couloir. From the summit of Pearl Peak traverse south a tad before dropping into the skier's right side of the northeast bowl.

You should have been able to scope this line on your ascent up the north ridge, but if not, just know that you are skiing over a cliff.

The skiing is not particularly steep, but a fall in the lower portion of the main face would not be good.

A skinny traverse provides passage skier's right to a tight couloir exit.

This aesthetic line has it all! If you have the legs, head up to the south and cap off your day with a ski down the Scimitar Couloir, a curling hallway of snow beginning at a dramatic rock outcropping.