How to ski corbet’s couloir your first time
For those gearing up to take on Corbet's Couloir for the first time, it’s essential to prepare with the right mindset and technique. While the initial drop may look intimidating—like you might catch an edge and tomahawk down the slope—it’s more approachable than it seems, as long as the conditions are right and you’re ready for the challenge.
Assess Your Skills
First and foremost, Corbet’s is not for the faint of heart. You should be confident in skiing steep double black diamond terrain before attempting it. The most important factor is to wait for optimal conditions, ideally after some fresh snowfall. This will make your descent smoother and more forgiving.
Watch and Learn
When you’re ready and the snow is soft, start your approach from the top of the tram. Take a moment to watch a few skiers drop in before you make your move. Observing others can provide insight into the best lines and techniques.
Finding Your Line
The entrance to Corbet’s can be tricky, so approach the edge slowly. Locate the “goat path”—this is the easiest way in and the spot where most skiers will gather before dropping in. Slide sideways into the couloir as far as possible without losing your edge, making sure to go slow and avoid dropping in at full speed, otherwise you would lose it.
Dropping In
As you creep sideways down the slope, look for the path that heads under the cornice to the skier’s right. When you’ve positioned yourself low enough to see the turn, rotate your ski tips downhill into the couloir. This is the critical moment where many skiers make mistakes: trying to stop too soon which puts you backseat, turning uphill to slow down but it can cause you to lose control catch an edge, and flip on your back.
The Key to Control
To stay in control, avoid leaning back. Keep your weight forward and over the front of your boots. As you make your initial right turn toward the wall, commit to it and then make a left turn before trying to slow down to regain control. Using these turns to manage your speed will keep you balanced and stable through the descent.
Final Thoughts
While my favorite entry into Corbet’s is a backflip off the nose of the cornice, I definitely don’t recommend that for your first attempt! Start with the basics, take your time, and practice proper technique. With confidence and practice, Corbet’s Couloir can become one of your most exhilarating skiing achievements.