June 23, 2002, Denman Chutes-Tatoosh Backcountry

Two old timers showed with designs on the Paradise Glacier. but cloud cover made that destination seem a less that optimum choice. In that we knew the Pinnacle, Plummer and Denman chutes were in fine form, having skied the area the previous Sunday, we headed back there. Snow was stable with anywhere from 3 to 8 inches of corn on top. Cupping still quite bearable with the soft surface snow. We were tempted to go to boot crampons in the steeper chute sections of climbing as much of the time we only got a 2 to 4 inch purchase while booting up. Still skiable coverage in all three chutes but Plummer (the center one) is getting pretty narrow, for us non-hotdogs. We were surprised with the amount of snow loss in just one week. If you've been meaning to do these chutes this year, better nail them pretty soon or you'll need to wait 'til next spring. Pics available for review here.

Ron Jarvis