Date Created: 05/04/2009

Last Updated: 05/04/2009

An amazing view of Lake Tahoe is coupled with a descent that seems like you're literally skiing right into Lake Tahoe. While there's isn't too much accessible backcountry on the East Shore, this is for surely a worthy line to get when conditions are in as the vertical is top-to-bottom and the views are ridiculous. Needs a good amount of snow to be skiable and scope it first-the bottom is often melted out and it's harder than it looks to enter the chute proper. There's also mellow N facing trees around the corner, as well as other various descent routes if you're not into the main chute.

Scope the peak from the N-NW shores of Tahoe, and then from below the runs at the trailhead. Notice the N facing trees and the several chutes that appear like "scratches on the West Face. This is how the peak gets it name and these angles provide the best visuals to prepare before riding. Skin or boot up depending on your chosen descent.

The main chute is sometimes hard to enter, so it's best to climb in or near in. But be aware you wouldn't want to be climbing in the main chute if riders were on top of you about to drop in. If you're skiing the N Face trees skin up and follow your tracks back down.

Park at the Sand Harbor State Park lot about 3 miles south of Incline Village. A day fee is usually required-check the kiosk upon entering.

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Backcountry skiing is dangerous. Use our online backcountry skiing guide at your own risk.