Hidden Chute

Type: Backcountry or Sidecountry

This gem is hidden from view from most vantages; it's a steep-walled gully that holds cold snow when other notable lines in the area have been affected by sun and wind. The top of the line, above treeline, is often wind scoured and not entirely rideable; from treeline down is where the goods are. This line isn't readily visible from the ground so isn't skied out as quickly as others.

From the Wheeler Peak North Ridge route drop into the line above a ridge separating the Williams Lake Basin from the Finger Chutes. Below treeline, the slide path narrows and runs down a gully, making turns that follow the contours created by glaciers during the most recent ice age and kept clear by fast running avalanches. When this chute runs, the large open face above is funneled into the narrow gully so all the snow is channeled to one narrow path; this creates a considerable terrain trap with no exit on either side. There are some steep drops, features to air off, and open glades on either side of the path. At the bottom it levels out and evidence of avalanches is seen in the trees with flagging several dozens of feet above the ground. The terrain naturally flows to the right leading to the Williams Lake Trail.