East Face of 13,823

Overview

The East Face of Pt. 13823 "Lackawanna Peak" is a great ski descent providing a short (800ft) but steep ski directly off the summit. Views abound of the Elk range to the west, Casco/French Massif to the north, La Plata and the continental divide to the south. If your looking for a good easy access, big vertical, pristine backcountry ski tour, combine this with the monster
3000 ft. Everett Avalanche Paths, and this is it.

Getting There

Park off HWY 82 about 1 mile west of the La Plata TH. HWY 82 over Independence Pass is closed untill the end of May, so access is generally from the east side. Be sure to park in a protected area, as the runout zones for these large avalanche paths do cross the road on occasion.

Route Description

Since the drainage it filters into, Hayden Creek, has no trail, it might be a bit of a bushwhack to get in and out that way. Wait untill snow stability is good, then climb directly up one of the long 3000 ft. Everett Avalanche Paths. This gives you incentive to check out the snowpack on your way up in consideration to ski down it later. Scope your descent from the summit ridge. Climb back up the East Face, then descend your ascent route. Doing this tour gives you the ability to work the compass with a melt/freeze snowpack, from east facing terrain to south facing terrain.

Essential Gear

beacon, shovel, probe

External Links

Colorado Avalanche Information Center http://avalanche.state.co.us/

Fireweather.info http://www.fireweather.info/

Trip Report: http://primomo.blogspot.com/2008/04/lackawanna-and-brumley-peaks-co.html

Images

View East Face of 13,823 Image Gallery - 6 Images