Jan does the limbo, Wright-Wrong Gully

Skiing in the Adirondacks is a decidely natural experience- natural terrain, natural snow and natural conditions. While the Adirondacks are better know for ice climbing, by mid-winter the extensive backcountry terrain and snowpack typically come into shape and offer a variety of objectives. Ski tours in the High Peaks are a well-rounded experience, requiring an even mix of cross-country, uphill, downhill skiing and mountaineering techniques.

Skinning up. Wright Peak.

Skier, Angel Slides, High Peaks.

For a good aerial view of the High Peak's best terrain, check out Drew Haas' Adirondack Slide Guide.

Powder to the people, Angel Slides

Cloudsplitter offers guided backcountry ski tours by reservation through our private guiding program.

Actual itineraries are dependent upon conditions, and Cloudsplitter's experienced local guides will suggest routes that make the best use of terrain and conditions.

Colin, Angel Slides.

Chris in deep on the Monument Slide

The Slides. Once the winter snows kick in, the exposed anorthosite slabs and slidepaths in the High Peaks are an ideal backcountry objective for those who enjoy the challenge and rewards of touring, turning and natural snow conditions. All require a 'cross-country' approach, some make for an easy day tour, and for the more serious skier there are full day routes that combine climbing and skiing for a summit tour of Mt. Colden or Gothics.

You gotta blow it to know it!

Wright Peak (4580‘). With a moderate three mile approach up a classic CCC trail and several descent options- from trails to narrow gullies, a ski tour up Wright Peak is an excellent introduction to backcountry skills and terrain for an experienced alpine or cross-country skier.

Mt. Colden (4714'). For serious skiers, a tour of Mt. Colden adds an equal dose of ice climbing and mountaineering to the mix, with an ascent of the Trap Dyke and several descent options off the summit (some by rappel) including: back down the Dyke, Otis Gully, the West Ramp and the Opalescent Slide.

Jesse, above the Dyke on Colden

Gothics (4736'). The North Face cirque on Gothics offers some of the best open bowl skiing in the Adirondacks. For those who favor an even mix of climbing and skiing, an ascent of the North Face and a more moderate descent of the True North slide is the classic objective. Guarded by a six-mile approach, a summit ski tour of Gothics is a long but rewarding day; an overnight camp in the basin is a great way to make the most of the experience and get more turns in!

Mt. Marcy (5344‘). The seven mile tour up the Van Hovenberg Trail to the summit of New York’s highest peak (preferably on a sunny early spring day) is a rite of passage for any eastern backcountry skier. Although technically considered easy, the steep climb to the exposed summit and the descent back down the narrow & winding trail can require a full bag of backcountry tricks and a full day's effort.

Fred and Erik, Gothics North Face.

 

Wright Peak, summit ski tour