Humpback Mountain - West Slope split, April 2006

Going off of a tip from Eric, who had done this tour a week or two prior, I decided to explore Humpback Mountain's West Slope. Plainly visible from I-90, the West Slope reportedly delivered over 1500ft of easily accessed skiable vertical, requiring only a casual four hours round-trip. A perfect 'dawn-patrol' outing, or in my case, a quick fix before catching the Mariners - Angels game later that afternoon, it's suprising that this tour continues to remain in the shadow of more popular Snoqualmie Pass backcountry descents.

After parking the car, I booted up the road for about a quarter mile before continuing on skis. The road makes two switchbacks (stay on main road). At the third switchback/fork, take the left fork and continue upwards on a spur road - it leads to a clearing directly beneath the West Slope. I ascended the West Slope directly to the summit. Riding down from the summit, I enjoyed sun-ripened corn all the way down the West Slope and down the logging road, stopping within sight of my car.

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