Slope Aspect: North-East
Trip ReportsVertical Climbed: 980 meters (3,215 feet)
Avalanche Risk: 2
Snowline: 950
The Pas de la Rousse, East Couloir is almost the last line of the east Chartreuse that I've not skied. It is supposed to be the steepest line in the range. The recent snow had bonded much better to the base than the previous chutes so it seemed like a possibility. I was skiing with a member of the local police who was "on patrol"]. The entrance is steep, around 55 degrees, and exposed. No Fall Zone, as the American's say. A steep traverse right into a sheltered bowl where the snow was "settled powder" of dubious quality. turns were not always that elegant.
At the exit we had about 5cm of snow sitting on 45-50 degree angled flagstones, it was amazing that the snow was sticking to these. Ensuite, a large snowfield of light crust which was just about skiable then powder in the woods.
So the "settled powder bonded to the base" wasn't really there. Maybe a couple of day's earlier? Then again it is the devil and the deep blue ski (sic). When the skiing is good the avalanche risk is often unacceptable.
Weather: Sunny
Access: Snow in village with black ice.
Country: France Area: Chartreuse Trailhead: Les Prés
Participants:Patrick
