Page Type:
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Route |
|---|---|
Lat/Lon:
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39.15220°N / 107.0608°W |
Route Type:
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Skiing |
Season:
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Spring |
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Time Required:
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A long day |
|
Difficulty:
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50 degree snow |
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Grade:
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III |
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Overview
The East Face of Clark Peak via Copper Creek is a grand ski descent of the Elk Range. The peak rises over 4500 ft. from the valley bottom where Snowmass Creek runs through. This peak sees at most a few teams of ski mountaineers a year compared with its easier access and lower elevation cousin, Mount Daly, which sees multiple descents. Skiing is possible from 20ft. below the summit. The steep headwall has a couple ways through on a good year, and is 800 vertical feet for the steep section. The rest rivals any long glacial valley in Europe, beautiful rolling terrain. One of the highlights is the view of the formiddable East Face of Capitol Peak from Clark's summmit.Getting There
Park at the Snowmass Creek TH, which can be reached from Rd.11 "Snowmass Creek Road" off HWY 82.Route Description
Head up Snowmass Creek, then veer off at Copper Creek through thick Aspens for a hundred feet or so. Follow the drainage up and up, climb your route of planned descent. This route should only be attempted with a stable spring snowpack.Essential Gear
Crampons, ice axe, helmet, beacon, shovel, probe.External Links
avalanche.state.co.us/www.fireweather.info/
www.wildsnow.com