Little Italy Couloir on Pikes Peak And/Or The Chimney Couloir

I had to cancel this event last year due to poor snow conditions, so I still have a pass for the Pikes Peak road for one car. After my car fills then others will need to get their own. This is an early couloir climb, and will be dependent on low avalanche risk.

Let's get this couloir season started! Little Italy is a relatively short (800 ft) climb with 30 - 35 degree slopes, and is good for a refresher or beginners. The highest elevation on the climb is about 12,800 ft. The beauty of this climb is the short approach from parking near Glen Cove off the Pikes Peak Highway. Options for descent include going back down the couloir as a glissade, practicing plunge stepping, or ski/ride. Or, we can walk a bit and go down a shallower slope back to the cars. We do have to pay a toll to get through the Pikes Peak Gateway.

The Chimney is a longer and narrower couloir from the same parking spot. Slope angles can get as steep as 45 to 50 degrees on this one.

Because people must organize carpools and get tickets, DO NOT SIGN UP FOR THIS EVENT UNLESS YOU KNOW YOU CAN GO. If you have previously been a no-show (didn't change your RSVP) do not sign up.

Bring: Mandatory- crampons, ice axe, helmet, waterproof boots, gaiters, snacks, water, usual Winter Hiking Gear
Meet: We will meet at 8:15 am at the Pikes Peak entry carpool lot to consolidate in cars and to get in line. The gate opens at 9 am, but there will be a long line of cars. Meeting Location
If you can leave cars at a different location that will be the safest as far as carpool parking. The entry gate lot fills up quickly. From the Gateway it is about a half hour to our parking spot for the climb.
Departure Location for Climb: Here
Toll: $18 per person or $65 per car (5 people max) at the gate; Or currently can purchase online $10 per person or $35 per car (5 people max). Online tickets are good for one year. Timed Entry reservations are not required before Memorial Day weekend. Please be prepared to share the per car cost if you carpool.
Roundtrip: One to Two miles, depending on descent. Heck, if you're fast you could do this one twice for fun! :D

After climb Meal - Those that want to can drive on up to the summit, and/or we can meet in Colorado Springs for a meal. TBD

Please comment to arrange carpools and let folks know what you'd like to do after the climb.

*Note - I am not an instructor and this is not a class. I am happy to offer some guidance, but you are responsible for your own safety.

Of course we'll watch conditions and weather as we get closer, and I'll post on comments.

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