This little mountain range running between Port Alberni and Cumberland does not look like much from the highway but I have wanted to check it out on skis for quite a while now.  It can be a challenge to access as the road is gated and most often closed.  Some of us have been keeping an eye on one of the main access points and have seen it open fairly regularly during the week, we thought it would be a good opportunity to get up there and check it out.  

DS_121207_1203 We were able to get fairly high on the logging roads before the snow was too deep to continue in the vehicles.  It made for an easy approach...

DS_121207_1211 Heading up you are treated to some great views of Denman and Hornby Island if the visibility allows

DS_121207_1217

DS_121207_1219

DS_121207_1226 Some spectacular old growth patches remain untouched in limited places on the Island

DS_121207_1230
DS_121207_1234

DS_121207_1237
DS_121207_1257

DS_121207_1261 A couple mini couloirs will make for some great lines off the summit once filled in a bit more.

DS_121207_1266 Sweet playground

DS_121207_1280 No shortage of steep lines to ski around here

DS_121207_1294

DS_121207-Panorama Looking forward to return here a bit later in the season with a deeper snowpack!