Looking up at Big Chiwaukum (main summit at right).

Big Chiwaukum - west-side touring, February 2005

Determined to ski Big Chiwaukum's West Slope, I duped myself (and Eric) into thinking there'd be enough snow out there this winter for a nice long descent from the summit. I couldn't have been further from the truth. Also, in the spirit of full disclosure, Eric and I actually hiked overnight gear several miles up the trail before making camp for the night and continuing on the following morning. We found the approach a bit long for relatively little skiing. Though we managed to ski some enjoyable hoar frost powder on low-angle slopes beneath Big Chiwaukum, the steeper lines for which this tour is apparently known for lacked adequate coverage to be skied. Looking back, I'm not sure that I even converted my split into 'ride mode' and just farted around on skis the entire time instead.

Mouse-over thumbnails below for a description and click to enlarge.

Eric skins below Big Chiwaukum's West Slope with False Pass in distance.  Where's the snow?    Gaining our high point on the West Slope.  Jim Hill in background.    Looking down lower half of West Slope descent.  With adequate coverage and in good snow conditions, this would be an awesome descent.    Eric enjoys light and deep hoar-frost powder on lower West Slope.    Tele turns in open glades and light pow.


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