The Chute

Page Type Page Type: Route
Location Lat/Lon: 44.25471°N / 71.29348°W
Additional Information Route Type: Mountaineering, Skiing
Seasons Season: Spring, Winter
Additional Information Time Required: Most of a day
Additional Information Difficulty: D7 R3
Additional Information Grade: III
Sign the Climber's Log

Overview

The Chute is one of the many ski routes in Tuckerman's Ravine. The Chute is the second route to the right of the Left Gully. Like every route in Tuck's, the Chute is steep. It's around 50 degrees at the top, 40 in the middle, and in the 30's towards the bottom. It is a serious route the offers challenging skiing in the classic eastern backcountry area that is Tuckerman's Ravine.

Getting There

Take the Tuckerman's Ravine Trail in to the bowl from Pinkham Notch. Once you are in the bowl, go to the route that is two routes to the right of Left Gully.

Route Description

Conditions will determine how high you can ski. When there is more snow earlier in the season you can ski from the top of the ravine. Its a good idea to hike up the route you intend to ski, so its not a real good idea to ascend up the Left Gully and ski down the Chute. If the Chute is your goal the hike up in between the two rock formations that form the Chute. From there follow the line you want to ski, depending on snow conditions

Essential Gear

Skis, Snowboard, Splitboard
Skins
Crampons
Ice Ax
Avy gear: probe, shovel beacon
Snow testing gear
Helmet
Enough water for 6-7 hours
Food
Sun glasses
Clothing based on weather conditions

External Links

Avalanche Advisory for Tuckerman Ravine


For a further explanation of the D-system rating system, check out Lou Dawson's website