Top Notch Peak: Summit Descent

Type: Backcountry or Sidecountry

This route is a straightforward descent back to the car off of the summit of Top Notch Peak.

When skiing out to make another or lap or call it a day, avoid the creek. Stay skiers' left and above the creek. If later in the spring, the creek can turn into a real hazard. Bear spray should be worn at all times by all people in the party. We have seen bear tracks up here many times, and we have encountered grizzlies just a mile from the parking lot just after leaving the area.

This path takes you back down the backside of the mountain through the sparse trees. Powder can be found here late into spring and this can provide some of the best skiing.

Work you way skiers' right down toward the ridgeline but beware of the cornices. The main bowl entrance is The Funnel and is a sporty but forgiving ski going from steep to mellow providing a great opportunity to pick up speed and still provide you room to run with it down the valley floor.