Type: Backcountry or Sidecountry
Overview
This is a really nice, 1,200' north-facing line where you can choose from two different main chutes that are connected by a spine. Take one the whole way or skip back and forth between them. You can see this line from pretty much the whole drive down this side of Loveland Pass. You can also get a better look at conditions from the valley floor before committing.
Need to Know
Park at upper A Basin lot or the pullout that's used for SFB.
Description
Approach via the ridge that separates Marjorie Cirque from A-Basin. Or I suppose you could boot up it directly but the ridge was pretty nice and has less time under objective hazard. Once the angle eases off (approx 12,900') and you pass the end of the cornice, you can see down into the line. Ease down to a little rock outcropping before it steepens up to have a nice view of your partner, while staying clear of the cornice.
Didn't measure, but I'd say mostly around mid-30s steepness, though you could force some steeper turns. The half pipe/spine feature makes for some pretty playful terrain. It's a straight and open line without significant danger, but a fall wouldn't be fun if it were firm.
If the cornice happened to release while you're on the line, it would be trouble, but if you pay attention to the temps, it should be easy enough to make a decision and you could bail farther east around the bowl to lines without cornices above.
Contacts
Shared By:
claytown
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