Griffith (~11060’) by Avalanche Chute

pics by Harlan W. S.
May 09, 2009

 

I started way too late—after 9:20 at the trail. It was above 90F in Vegas, and then snow was already soft in the chute.  I post-holed to my chest several times.  I had near-continuous snow from 8500’ to the summit.

 

This is a good chute for testing snow equipment. In a typical year, snow persists into May or even early June.  The overall gradient is modest (26º), but there is an alternation of low and high slopes, so often there is a good run-out for practice. Care must be taken near the cliff bands, especially in a glissading descent.

 

griffavy

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Still on trail; lower part of chute

comes into view.

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Much of the chute is ~ 30º

 

 

 

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View up.

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Awwww, how cute!

 

 

 

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Cliff bands were obnoxious.

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Looking up, near top of peak.

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The route from Harris Springs

was almost snow-free.

 

 

 

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Arrogance.

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West toward Charleston.

 

 

 

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Back down, E to Griffith.

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The wide chute on descent. 

Hidden cliff bands were a problem.

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Waterfalls on the downclimb

by cliff bands.

 

 

 

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Tracks up on L,

butt-slide on R.

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Almost down! One more

cliff band.