Sh** for Brains

Type: Backcountry or Sidecountry

Sh** for Brains is probably one of the steepest runs that you can ski in Summit County. This is located on the ridge between Loveland Pass and Arapahoe Basin above and feeding into the Marjorie Bowl. This is an extreme line. Ski it with a partner and take appropriate precautions to avoid serious injury and/or death.

This is a no-fall zone that is subject to avalanches. There are hidden cliffs, at times thin cover may expose or partially cover rocks and may result in unintentional small drops. In the spring, there may be hidden streams below the snow at lower elevations.

Getting into the couloir requires a fair bit of skill at maneuvering on and around snow and ice covered rocks. Ascent and descent is required, all in ski boots. Consequences of a fall during entry to the couloir are serious.

After analyzing the snow pack, it is best to make a ski cut or two at the top to check for slide potential.

The run is wider at the top but gradually narrows to approximately 40' wide with 10' to 15' rock walls on either side of the couloir. The most constricted portion of the run is towards the bottom prior to gradually opening out into Marjorie Bowl. Keep right and stay high on the traverse of Marjorie Bowl to aim for the road, or ski the bowl proper to aim for Arapaho Basin ski resort.

This line is best skied in short segments with a partner. There are a few openings in the skiers left of the couloir that can be used to stop and wait while your partner skis the line, or to watch them until they are waiting for you to start. This will increase safety and response time in the event of a fall or slide.