Description

One of the many epic backcountry descents in the Sierra Nevada is the north- facing headwall couloirs coming off Mount Morgan South.

At 13,748 feet, it’s a steady climb up there, but worth the trek, because the couloirs are known for holding that cherished champagne powder.

Start your journey from the Snow-Park on Rock Creek Road.

Ski 3 miles up the road to Rock Creek Lake, where you’ll need to follow the road around the left shore to the start of the summer trail.

The trail gently climbs up the valley, taking you east around the base of the north end of the north ridge.

You’ll turn southeast to Kenneth Lake and eventually south to Francis Lake.

Continuing up the North Ridge, after a strenuous climb you will eventually reach Mount Morgan’s summit.

It’s a stunning spot: the summit plateau is often covered in perfect powder, and the views are also something to behold.

The Little Lakes Valley lies directly below, and the panorama is punctuated with hundreds of impressive peaks, including Mount Dade, Mount Abbott and Mount Tom.

To get down, there’s a whole range of steep couloirs coming off the headwall for you to choose from.

The couloir nearest the North Ridge is at about 35 degrees and drops 1,000 feet from the summit plateau to the glacial cirque below.

All of the couloirs here are very narrow and steep, so only really suitable for advanced and expert skiers.