For moderate backcountry travelers, skiing the East Couloir of Kessler Peak can be a character building experience. First there is the steep 3,000 foot climb up a massive avalanche path called Argenta that leads to the top of Kessler. Then the couloir awaits.
The East Couloir is something one may not ski normally due to avalanche danger. But with an avalanche report’s rating at low to moderate, well, green means go.
Argenta is a popular place for skiers when the snowpack is stable as it is very easy to access. There is a large pullout on the side of the road in Big Cottonwood Canyon, and once the skis are on, there is no approach before the climb. Argenta goes straight up from the road to the top of Kessler Peak. The skin track is long, steep and constantly exposed to the avalanche path. But the lack of trees allows for spectacular views.
At the top of the peak, skiers are treated to a nice vista with Twin Peaks to the south-west and Mount Raymond and Gobbler’s Knob to the north. The East Couloir lies below, just down the ridge from the peak.
The East Couloir is steep, long, and has a scary ski-length entrance. To add to the difficulty, the snow can be a variable, choppy mix of snow conditions, from sun-crust to recrystallized powder. After a few hops down the neck of the couloir, one can open up some speed and make short turns all the way down. Once through, the apron spreads out below, providing excellent turns to the bottom of Cardiff Fork.
To ski the East Couloir of Kessler Peak, simply park your car at the Argenta trailhead on the side of the Big Cottonwood Canyon road. Skin up the Argenta trail to the top of Kessler Peak where you can either ski down the face or choose the descent down the East Coulior. There is also a West Couloir (that I haven’t skied yet.) Once through the couloir, you have to ski to the bottom of Cardiff Fork and down to the parking lot at the sledding park. From there, hitch a ride back to your car ro set up a shuttle before the ascent.
The East Couloir of Kessler Peak is an awesome, heart-pounding backcountry run that only expert skiers should attempt. The entire mountain is steep and there are cliffs everywhere. It should also only be skied when avalanche danger is low or moderate.
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