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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.
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.