Superior Chute Skiing

Despite the meager snowpack this past season, there was still some exciting skiing and climbing to be done on Mt. Superior, one of America's 50 Classic Ski Lines. On Jan. 5, we climbed and skied Suicide Chute, then continued up the knife-eged South Ridge with skis on the back. We finished by dropping the "W" or "Pinball" Chute, another East-Facing couloir. It required 2 small "mandatory airs" and a bit of creative route-finding. But, all in all, a fine day on the mountainside.

Crampons recommended for the lowest portion of Suicide Chute, aka, Country Lane.

Paul gets it done in the well-travelled, but smooth-skiing Suicide Chute.

The Knife-edge section of the South Ridge. Note the quality snow in Couloirs below.

This old goat had no harem, but seemed to be living out his years alone and happy.

The final slab crux before topping out on the "Sharks Fin" where the Quartzite ends, and Slate/Shale friable rock leads to the summit. The first few turns face NE and were powdery.

Plenty of snow in the "Butterfly Wings" middle apron. Good snow for good skiers here.