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SKIING THE NORTHEAST FACE OF LES COURTES
After a brief rest at the top, we were giddy to drop in. Making turns down the 45-degree face, we found deep, cold, dry snow the wasn’t sluffing too much, but the steepness of the face mandated that we avoid any running snow, for fear of being carried off our feet and down the huge line. Each turn was dreamy, predictable, and smooth. I had never made turns this steep in snow so good on such a big face. It was other-worldly.
Skiing the Col des Cristaux
After a stretch of mixed weather, lots of fresh snow, and a week of guiding, the skies cleared for a couple days in Chamonix. John Michael McGinn, a fellow Exum guide, joined me for a 2-day trip to the Argentière basin. This area is known for its steep north facing extreme ski descents. Conditions were perfect to explore the legendary terrain here, starting with the Col des Cristaux.
Dream Line: Skiing the Cosmiques Couloir
The Cosmiques Couloir, nestled in the heart of the Mont Blanc Massif, is renowned among skiers for its challenging pitch and breathtaking views. With its entrance rappels, steep slopes, and a glaciated exit, it presents an exhilarating yet formidable descent that demands precision and skill. Skiers who make the pilgrimage to Chamonix almost always want to test their nerve and technique on this benchmark of ski-mountaineering history. And it lives up to the hype.
A Swiss Secret: skiing the ENGADIN VALLEY aND THE ALBULA TRAVERSE
In March 2023, I led a group on the Albula traverse, from St. Moritz to Davos through the Albula range in eastern Switzerland. The Canton of Graubunden (Grisons) is the most interesting Canton in Switzerland, thanks to its unique blend of Swiss-German, Italian, and Romansch cultures. The scenery here is unmatched, and the ski crowds are nowhere to be found, making it a powder skier’s paradise. The Albula traverse samples the best skiing in the area.
DREAM TRIP REPORT: FREERIDE HAUTE ROUTE
From February 24-March 1, 2024, I led a ski trip from Chamonix, France to Zermatt, Switzerland. This trip vaguely followed the path of the world-famous Haute Route, which traverses over glaciers and high peaks from Chamonix to Zermatt. Instead of traversing, we opted to ski from town to town across the Alps, using the impeccable lift systems to reach high summits. From the top of one ski area, we’d descend the backside, leaving the crowds behind, and end up in a completely new valley each night. After skiing to the next village, we’d spend the night at a comfortable hotel and celebrate the day’s achievements with a delicious meal.