Description

Black Prince has long been a favourite touring spot for backcountry enthusiasts.

Many Avalanche safety training courses are held here and it's a great, user-friendly spot to get good turns.

Most of the ski terrain is at treeline or below but you do pop into the alpine before descending, affording you some great views.

The approach route is straight forward from the car.

You almost immediately cross a creek which, if you are there after December, should be well bridged with snow.

After that it is a double wide, dual use snow shoe and ski trail until you take a hard right toward Black Smith Ridge area.

You will follow a gully before taking a left to ascend about 400 meters to the alpine.

Depending on the stability there are many options for skiing.

The safest descent route will parallel your uptrack through the trees.

A fun route when avalanche danger is very low is the avalanche slide path skiers right of where you transition.

The snow is often good in this area as the trees shelter it from the wind.

There is overhead hazard especially as you pop out of treeline and that will need to be assessed on a day by day basis. Most people who come to this area do a few laps taking advantage of the same uptrack.

This is a great place to tour, learn about terrain and take in some views.

This zone can be linked to Black Smith Ridge or The Purple Knob Col if energy and stability allow.

There is no cell reception in this area so be sure to bring an Inreach or spot device and take proper safety precautions.