Tip Sheet: Big Couloir
Scare yourself a little on this classic Big Sky descent. Because nothing makes you feel more alive than thinking you might die.
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» Location: Big Sky, Mont.
» Need to Know: Sign out at the patrol shack at the top of the tram. Bring avy gear. Know how to use it.
» Vertical Feet: 1,400
» Scare Factor:A sustained pitch of 50 degrees plus a hairball entrance make it one of North America’s toughest inbounds runs.
Get After It » The entrance is corniced, rocky, and exposed. Don’t fall. Ski one at a time. Jump- turn down to the dogleg, then duck into the safe zone to wait for your partner. The pitch remains consistent but the chute widens, so even if your thighs are on fire, your brain can relax. After the apron, look up, snap a pic, post to Instagram, and head to Whiskey Jack’s to
Refuel » The Lotus Pad in The Meadows is delish. It’s a (free) bus ride from the base and well worth the effort. Order the rendang curry with bison. This is Montana, after all.
Hydrate » Lone Peak Brewery in The Meadows is always packed with aromatic locals. Bring your facial hair and trust the shot-ski sampler to steer you in the right direction.