Arkansas
6/17/2007
I climbed up Arkansas Mountain’s north ridge and dropped my skis just below a false summit, thinking it was the summit and the northeast couloir was not in. I soon realized that it was, but did not want to fetch my skis since I knew I was short on time if I wanted to attempt Bartlett Mountain. I finished the long 3rd class climb to the summit and back, then skied the north-facing bowl of Arkansas. The snow was good and I was able to ski down very close to my vehicle.
Skied Elevation: 2000’
I hiked/skinned up Bartlett Mountain’s west face. When I was at the Bartlett Mountain-Little Bartlett Mountain saddle, I could see either Julie or Luke climbing the lower couloir. I gave a yell to make my presence known. I arrived at the sketchy summit block, dropped my pack and carefully climbed the loose, 4th class and crumbly pitch. I quickly retreated, put on my skis and began skiing when I sank down to my waist, then spent a lot of effort retrieving a ski. Finally, I began skiing again and the snow quality improved somewhat. I met up with Julie & Luke, then we descended further down drainage.
Skied Elevation: ~1480'
Bartlett Mountain’s north face.
The map is outdated; due to mining, Bartlett Mountain’s summit is now at 13400’.
Total Skied Elevation: ~3480’