Southeast couloir (Ross Traverse)

Southeast couloir is commonly used as the ascent line on the Ross Traverse in Rogers Pass, within Glacier National Park. From the Ross Peak trailhead parking, skin up through the established tree wedge and avalanche path used for the east face, staying in the main slide path rather than drifting into the dense timber. Expect a confined gully-style ascent with overhead start zones and exposure to natural avalanches above.

Once you break above the lower cliff band around 1,800 m, trend northwest to gain the main gully proper. The gully gives a straightforward skin track to the ridge, but watch for cross-loading and wind slab on the sidewalls, plus thinly covered rock ribs. There is usually no cornice directly blocking the entrance, but sizeable cornices hang nearby along the ridge, so give the lip space and probe carefully before committing to the crest.

In very deep snow years, some parties eye direct fall-line options through the steep cliff terrain low in the couloir, but these lines are serious terrain traps with rock bands and overhead hazard; the original author notes no known descents through this lower cliff section. Treat the whole feature as a consequential avalanche path: pick a cold, stable day, move efficiently between safe spots, and avoid lingering under the walls. Check current Glacier National Park winter permit zones and avalanche bulletins before heading out. Parks Canada – Glacier National Park