Pinner Couloir, Laurel Mountain

• Top of descent elevation: 11,800’
• Descent in Vertical Feet: 3400’
• Slope: 35-38 degrees
• Aspect: East
• Distance from trailhead: 3.25 miles
• GPS: 37.578/-118.890
• USGS Map: Convict Lake

Notes: In a range packed to the brim with aesthetic couloirs, the Pinner holds its own as one of the most beautiful lines in California. There are two options for access. One is to first summit Mt. Laurel via the northeast ridge and then traverse to a large east facing bowl, which is the entrance to the couloir. But booting up the couloir is the best way to know what you’re getting into and what snow conditions will be like. Contour around the northeast face of Laurel up into Convict Canyon for this route. The couloir entrance will come into view on your right as you gain some elevation. Conditions in the Pinner can change quickly, and since it faces east, snow quality is always a question. The Pinner is a frequent flusher as well, meaning it sheds new snow often during and after storm cycles. The large rock walls shade the couloir for most of the year. The adventure with the Pinner is you can never see too far in front of your current turns. Extreme caution should be taken since this line does harbor rock fall and avalanches frequently and once you’re in it there are very few safe spots. As far as aesthetic couloirs go, this is a fairly accessible, gorgeous line; not too far from the trailhead or exceptionally steep.

Source: Adventure Sports Journal.com     http://adventuresportsjournal.com/three-classic-eastside-couloirs/