Ross Couloir

Steep, serious line on the north side of Ross Peak in Rogers Pass, fully in Glacier National Park permit terrain. The couloir drops from the upper north face into a confined gully with big overhead exposure from the walls and start zone above. Terrain is alpine and shaded; expect cold, settled snow but also lingering wind slab and hangfire after storms.

From the Ross Peak touring approach, continue into the north basin and trend toward the obvious straight couloir right of the more commonly skied line used on the Ross traverse. Transitions and regrouping spots are limited to small benches; most of the feature is no-fall, no-stop terrain with clean runout only once you exit into the lower apron.

Hazard exposure is high: overhead cornices, cross-loaded start zone, and a deep, narrow mid-section that will funnel any moving snow. Ski it only with a locked-in forecast, cold temps, and a well-bridged snowpack; even small sluffs can pile up deep in the choke. Conservative groups will often downclimb or rappel the uppermost section if coverage or stability are suspect.

Rogers Pass day-use permits, winter restricted areas, and seasonal closures are strictly enforced; check current maps and bulletins before heading out, and build your plan around the Avalanche Canada forecast for Glacier National Park. Full avalanche kit, strong group management, and a clear communication plan are mandatory in this line. More info on access and regulations: Parks Canada – Glacier National Park.