What’s the deal with couloir skiing, you ask?
If you follow any skiing on social media these days, it’s hard not to think of Powder7 skier Owen Leeper (@o_leeps) when you imagine skiing couloirs. He put together a behind-the-scenes look at an idyllic descent of Cody Peak’s Central Couloir in the Jackson Hole backcountry.
So What Is a Couloir?
A couloir is a steep gully, scar, or fissure in the side of a mountain. Usually found in the alpine, couloirs are typically flanked by vertical rock on either side and filled with snow through the winter months (and sometimes into the spring or summer). Equal parts impressive and intimidating, they vary widely in width, pitch, technicality, and exposure.
Where to Start
There’s no doubt: Couloir skiing can be epic. It’s also challenging and dangerous. Before you start ticking off couloirs in the backcountry, you need to develop the skills to safely do so. That includes skiing prowess, comfort with your gear, touring experience, and snow safety.
Here are a few resources to get you started:
The Ultimate Guide to Backcountry Skiing
How to Start Backcountry Skiing
Skiing Colorado’s Dragontail Couloir
