Baden-Powell’s Northwest Ridge
The glades along the sunny side of BP's northwest ridge looked irresistible from Dawson Saddle on Monday, so I went back yesterday to give it a try.
Alas those gleaming fields of white proved a bit illusory in person—coverage was thin and spotty. I had to pick my way down carefully, which makes sense, I guess, given I was trying to ski a west-facing aspect in October.
Where there was snow it was good snow: consolidated, smooth, and tasty.
Contrary to the impression you get from Dawson Saddle, however, the ridge is actually quite steep on its east aspect, making it yet another consequential Highway 2 zone.
With more snow I'd definitely go back. There is a hidden use trail, so you could easily hike this in summer. In winter, you'd probably have to bike to the trailhead. The road is open right now all the way from La Canada to Wrightwood, which is highly unusual when there's snow.
We think maybe they're keeping the road open because it's hunting season? Note that does add another layer of hazard to your touring adventure. Al was out on Throop yesterday with his dog, and heard multiple gunshots. He decided to cut his day short.
— October 22, 2025
Andy Lewicky is the author and creator of SierraDescents
Walter Kibler October 22, 2025 at 4:47 pm
The 2 open all the way to Wrightwood AND October skiing?? I don't know how to interpret this! Also, any updates on your steep turn development from over the summer? Did you get to test it out? I'm guessing we'll need to wait until the snowpack is deeper for adequate terrain to test the technique to be skiable.
Andy October 23, 2025 at 6:13 pm
I have been trying to balance my desire to test things out on 45 deg slopes with being out there alone on firm/fast conditions but... so far everything I learned on the ramp is validating on the real thing. :)