Macdonald West Shoulder

Classic Rogers Pass slide path on the west flank of Mount Macdonald. Open glades funnel into narrower gullies, with a broad bench and a wind-peeled upper ridge. True W aspect skis fast but bakes early; NRC Gully to the south adds a deeper trough and stronger terrain-trap character.

Park at NRC Gully lot only when West Rogers Winter Restricted Area is posted open and you hold a valid Winter Permit. From the lot, skin up the Macdonald W Shoulder #4 path through sparse timber to the bench, then trend onto the wind-scoured ridge for the final climb. Strictly respect the boundary with the Macdonald West Winter Prohibited Area on skinner and descent—trimline is obvious but the WPA starts closer than you think.

Common problems: wind slabs on the upper, treeless ridge; sun crust and rapid warming on W aspects; overhead hazard above NRC’s constriction; frequent hangfire after control days. Best when recent storm snow is bonding and before strong afternoon sun. If crowds stack, expect messy uptracks low.

Check daily status and maps before leaving the car. West Rogers WRA opens/closes with avalanche control, while Macdonald West WPA is permanently closed. Violations trigger area-wide closures and heavy fines. Details and current map on Parks Canada’s Rogers Pass Backcountry Access and Winter Permit pages: parks.canada.ca/skirogerspass.