What a difference a day makes on the notorious 6288′ Mt Washington. Why just the other day one of our teams was stopped short of their goal due to high winds, wind loaded snow, and higher than acceptable avalanche conditions. Turn the clocks ahead 24 hours, though, and the same ravine, now sun kissed, is significantly less dangerous, with acceptable ground conditions for backcountry alpine touring, and some fun New England skiing to be had.
This tour was led by Redline Guide Erik Samia and he and our guest were lucky enough to have fine weather and schedule coincide. They got to ski a famed Tuckerman Ravine couloir and a bit more, they just had to wait until the right time to do it safely. Erik offered this synopsis of the day followed by some spectacular photos.
We skinned up to Hojos [caretaker cabin of Hermit Lakes Shelters] and took a nice break out on the deck talking about the ski lines above is and the history of the beginnings of adventure skiing in America. We let the sun warm up the bowl from its hard pack. We skinned the rest of the way into the bowl and discussed our options, we chose Lobster Claw. So we strapped our skis to our packs and crampons on our feet. After a speedy ascent we found that the sun had softened up the “lookers” right side of the bowl just enough. We enjoyed a classsic New England decent. Then skiing down Little Headwall to the Sherbie and all the way back to Pinkham Notch. Conditions may have been variable, but with blues skis, sunshine, some patience, and good company, it was a great day to ski up high. —Erik Samia
There it is: Tuckerman Ravine.
Approaching the floor of the ravine.
Words will fail here.
Now it’s time to climb.
Our guest is relishing this.
It’s just one of those days.
Tuckerman Ravine as seen from Lobster Claw.
Outstanding job! Thanks for choosing Redline Guiding. Job well done, Erik.