Description

The Route: Plan is to start at the Whistler Olympic Park XC ski area, ski up the Hanging Lake trail to Hanging Lake, and then on up to the top of Gin Peak. Descent will be either by the same route or possibly down the north face if snow conditions are suitable.

Parking at the trailhead in the XC ski area requires purchasing a backcountry access ticket (one per car) which we purchase at the entry gate. The gate is open is 8:30 am – 4:30 pm so we have to make sure to be back by about 4:00 pm to avoid getting locked in!

Difficulty rating: Intermediate/advanced (B2/3) – most of this trip is on moderate slopes, but the ski down through the forest at the end of the day can be quite difficult as it often becomes like an icy luge track.
Distance: ~12km round trip
Elevation gain: ~1000m
Requirements: AST1, shovel, probe, avalanche transceiver, ski helmet, the 10 essentials, enough food, liquids, and warm clothing for a full day out.

Carpooling: 4×4 is not required, the road is good all the way to the parking lot. I can drive and take up to 3 other people. We can car pool from St. Davids church in West Van for people in the Vancouver area.

Please answer the following questions in the “Message to Trip Organizer” box when you sign up:
How much ski touring experience do you have?
AST1? AST2?
Have you been out ski touring recently? Where to?
Can you drive and how many passengers can you take?