Big Jim Mountain

Big Jim Mountain rises to 6,850 feet in the Chiwaukum Range along Highway 2, delivering a 16-mile round trip with 4,700 feet of elevation gain. The route climbs through burned forest and off-trail terrain before breaking onto an open ridge with direct views of Dragontail Peak, Mount Stuart, and the Enchantments. Spring corn cycles make the upper slopes excellent for sustained turns, and the ridge itself catches alpenglow worth every foot of the approach.

The lower mountain requires committed route-finding through downed timber and brushy sections. Skinning through the burn zone demands patience, but the terrain opens up above treeline into wide, skiable fall lines. Cornices build along the ridge, so reading the snowpack along the final push to the summit matters. The descent rewards that effort with 2,000-plus feet of open turns on a south-facing aspect.

Access from Highway 2 forest roads can be icy and rough in winter. The Icicle Creek approach from the south side offers a more reliable alternative when road conditions deteriorate. This tour suits experienced backcountry skiers comfortable with long days, navigation in burned terrain, and avalanche assessment on exposed ridges.