Annual spring snowmelt creates significant glide cracks, or crevasses, and undermined snow in the Lip area of Tuckerman Ravine, NH so we’ve had to close a section of the Tuckerman Ravine Trail where it passes through the Lip as a safety measure. These restrictions are necessary for public safety and to protect National Forest property.
This relatively short section stretches from Lunch Rocks in the Ravine to the junction with the Alpine Garden Trail just above the Ravine. Ascending or descending through this area now has numerous hazards which greatly elevate risk to travelers.
The closure pertains to both skiers and riders. The closure only pertains to this section of the Tuckerman Ravine Trail and will remain in effect until melt out eliminates these specific hazards.
Violation of these prohibitions is punishable by a fine of not more than $5000 for an individual or $10,000 for an organization, or imprisonment for not more than six months.
Tuckerman Ravine is a glacial cirque sloping eastward on the southeast face of Mt. Washington, in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Although it draws hikers throughout the year, and skiers throughout the winter, it is best known for the many “spring skiers” who ascend it on foot and ski down the steep slope from early April into July. In this period, the temperatures are relatively mild but the natural snowpack, which averages up to 55 feet in a typical winter, is still adequate to ski most seasons.
