Southwest Face Couloir
From Wikid Steeps
Contents |
Route Photo
Details
| Mountain | Mount Shuksan | |
| Aspect | Southwest | |
| Local Relief | Ski descent from | |
| ? ft (? m) | sub summit to valley bottom | |
| Average Slope | Vertical | Source |
| ?° | ? ft (? m) | [[]] |
| Approach | Heather Meadows | |
Description
A neglected aspect of Mount Shuksan, the Southwest Face can best be seen from Lake Ann Buttes. A glacier cirque cuts deep in between. This is where the West Face, Curtis Glacier and Fisher Chimneys routes begin. Start from either Mount Baker Ski area's White Salmon or Heather Meadows parking areas. If the White Salmon, climb the Ski Area onto the Shuksan Arm. Before a steep rise in a low spot, drop down and traverse to Lake Ann. If Heather Meadows, hike up to Lake Ann. From the Lake descend to the valley right of the creek or traverse high towards Fisher Chimneys.
The descent of the Southwest Face Couloir is made to the south of the high point on Mount Shuksan's Sulphide Glacier. This is further down the glacier than where Hell's Highway enters onto the Sulphide. The first turns are in an open bowl. This drops to a flatter area before entering the crux of the route. Depending on the season, steep cliffs can pose difficulty. Once through the cliffs, you are brought down to the Glacier. From here climb back up to Lake Ann and continue back to the White Salmon or Heather Meadows.
Labelled Route Photo
Documented Descents
Climb/Ski Photos
