Ammo Central Gully

Ammo Central Gully is a steep ski mountaineering line in the Ammonoosuc Ravine drainage on the west side of Mount Washington, accessed from the Ammonoosuc Ravine Trailhead in Twin Mountain. From the trailhead, follow the Ammonoosuc Ravine Trail toward Lakes of the Clouds, then leave the trail to climb into the main Ammonoosuc slide path and trend into the central gully once you are in open avalanche terrain.

The line is a confined gully with significant overhead hazard from ice and rock bands and pronounced terrain-trap characteristics low in the run, where debris can pile deeply against rock walls. The slope is sustained and serious, with typical Mount Washington wind loading; small wind slabs here have produced deep burials and at least one fatal avalanche in the main Ammonoosuc gully system despite a regional “Low” hazard rating. Expect highly variable snow surfaces, from ice and old crust to stiff wind slab and pockets of softer snow.

This zone is remote by Mount Washington standards, sees far less traffic than the east-side ravines, and has limited direct visibility from common vantage points, which complicates both self-rescue and organized response. Conservative terrain selection, tight group management, and strict adherence to the daily Mount Washington Avalanche Center forecast are essential; many parties wait for well-settled snow and clear, low-wind weather before committing to this gully.

For current avalanche, snow, and closure information, see the Mount Washington Avalanche Center.