Description

This classic tour takes you through a perfectly spaced sub-alpine forest on low angle slopes and ends at a true Bitterroot summit.

From the summit, options seem endless with ski descents possible on almost all sides of the mountain, into various drainages, and of wide ranging challenge.

To the southwest lies the North Fork of Bear Creek, with the monarch Sky Pilot beckoning to its beautiful north face.

To the east (along your ascent track) is 4000' of fine low angle tree skiing, which all but avoids avalanche risks (except as you traverse from the summit, watch out for wind slabs).

The north face can be skied from the true summit, although safer entry is found a few hundred feet below to skiers right, navigating between steep cliffs.

Once on the face, 3000' of wonderful fall line skiing takes you into the seldom visited, but awe inspiring drainage of Sweathouse Creek.

From here, options abound with both south and north facing couloirs in plain view.

To return, tour down drainage until you can climb the low saddle back to your skin track in Gash Creek.

The climb is short but steep and riddled with complex terrain features so be vigilant of avalanche risks.