Ski Mountaineering Classics

RMNP offers some of the finest ski descents and most spectacular scenery in Colorado. While the Colorado snowpack requires careful avalanche hazard evaluation, there is almost always good skiing to be found. Some of the following routes can be skied all winter; others are superb in late spring (May and June) when skiing velvet corn snow follows a peak ascent.

Flattop – Dragon’s Tail Couloirs

Area: Flattop
Descent: Dragon’s Tail Couloirs
Elevation: 12,324’
Rating: Intermediate (lower section) to expert
Technical Summary: 2.5 mile approach, +2800’ in elevation, crampons needed in springtime. SE aspect, 1500’ descent. April-May season.
Description: Spectacular. Ascend the couloir as far as your skills allow. Couloir starts mellow, steepens and narrows progressively, 48 degrees and 15’ wide at top.

Flattop Mtn – Corral Couloir

Area: Flatttop Mtn
Descent: Corral Couloir
Elevation: 12,324’
Rating: Advanced, 44 degrees at top, mostly 40 degrees and under
Technical Summary: 6 mile approach, +2900’ in elevation, non-technical ascent, variety of aspects, 2500’ descent.
Description: From the summit of Flattop, descend to the south down a 20 ft wide couloir and then ski 40-degree terrain under the incredible north face of Hallett Peak. Amazing views and great skiing.

Flattop Mtn – Ptarmigan Fingers

Area: Flattop Mtn
Descent: Ptarmigan Fingers
Elevation: 12,324’
Rating: Backcountry novice to intermediate; 20-35 degrees
Technical Summary: 3 mile approach, +2800’ in elevation, non-technical ascent, N aspects, runs of up to 1300’ vertical. All winter long with proper care.
Description: A great backcountry ski tour with excellent opportunities for yo-yo skiing. Several different bowls and couloirs offer opportunities for skiers of all abilities.

Notchtop Mtn – Notchtop Couloir

Area: Notchtop
Descent: Notchtop Couloir
Elevation: 12,129’
Rating: Expert only, narrow and >50 degrees
Technical Summary: 4 mile approach, +2660’ in elevation, crampons in early a.m., 1200’ vertical descent, NE aspect. May-June season.
Description: “One of the most spectacular ski descents on the Front Range”-Haddad/Faughey, Front Range Descents. Outstanding descent, the longest in a spectacular cirque.