Flute and Beyond

Looking South across Cheakamus Lake from Flute Summit

After months of waiting, and a Harmony Bowl avy that took out a Whistler Blackcomb groomer, Symphony lift opened and Flute was there for the taking.

Which way? Left into Flute Bowl proper, or out-of-bounds to the right and the great unknown... (note Blackcomb and the Spearhead Range in the background for reference)

Team Get Awesome is never afraid of a little challenge, properly peeped we attacked the steeps to the right. Eventually this pitch on the northeast (out-of-bounds towards Oboe) face of Lesser Flute meets up with the infamous Singing Pass Trail. On this day we found the SPT reminiscent of a tree-filled, and hideously off-camber, bobsled course. Imagine glaze ice, a sustained 6km traverse at speed (heels or toes, you decide), and the constant peril of plummeting to an icy death in the misleadingly named Fitzsimmons Creek far below. Note to self *ability to self-arrest is crucial.

The other option... witness the goodness of Flute Glades. Reached by descending from Lesser Flute Ridge (see above "North_of_NorthFlute" pic) inbounds to skier's left. This is the less treacherous of the two options from Flute and Lesser Flute Summits. Shred the Gnar as best you can, and be sure you live to do it again.