Moraine Lake Couloir
North CascadesBest Feb–Apr
A short-approach steep couloir off the Eldorado climbers' trail dropping to Moraine Lake.
About This Trail
The Moraine Lake Couloir gives a less-committing alternative to the bigger Eldorado lines, with the same trailhead approach but a quicker ski objective. Climb the steep Eldorado climbers' trail, traverse to a shoulder above Moraine Lake, then drop the couloir — a narrow chute called "the gut" that delivers steep skiing onto the frozen lake basin below.
The line stays short and steep. Vertical per descent runs about six hundred feet from the shoulder to the lake. Conditions vary widely: powder on cold cycles, refrozen surfaces in transition months, and warming hazards through spring. The trip stays in north-facing terrain to avoid solar-facing cliffs on the broader Eldorado complex.
This is a short-day Eldorado area objective — less commitment than Marble Royal or the SW couloir, but still committing terrain. Whiteout visibility and warming-driven small slides have been documented during descents. National Park Pass at the trailhead.
North-facing couloir with narrow gut section. ~600 ft of steep skiing onto frozen Moraine Lake basin. Conditions powder to refrozen depending on cycle.
Steep Eldorado climbers' trail bootpack. Trail-breaking through alpine terrain to the shoulder.
Seasonal Highlights
Astronomy
Trail Conditions
Scorecard
Few parties ski Moraine Lake in any season. Most Eldorado traffic heads for the bigger lines.
Safety & Considerations
Today's Hazard
- Strong sun — sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses recommended; water reflection adds glare near the lake
Persistent Hazards
- Steep couloir descent — mistake-intolerant
- Whiteout visibility challenges in the chute
- Warming-driven small slides — timing matters
- Solar-facing cliffs nearby — stick to north-aspect terrain
Getting There
Eldorado trailhead at the end of Cascade River Road. National Park Pass required.
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