Why Corbet's Couloir Is One of the Most Incredible Ski Slopes

No ski resort in North America has a chute as legendary as Corbet's Couloir in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. Located within Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, this double black diamond run is surrounded by steep rock walls and has a terrifying 45-degree pitch. It’s where expert skiers go to prove their skills - or to retreat in fear! Think you have what it takes to conquer America’s scariest ski slope? Read on to find out.

Learn more about Corbet's Couloir and other local attractions when you download our free vacation guide. It’s full of information on the best things to do during your stay at the Bentwood Inn!

The History of Corbet’s Couloir

Corbet's Couloir is named after mountaineer Barry Corbet who famously spotted the narrow crease of snow in 1960. He admired its unique, funnel-like shape and said, "Someday, someone will ski that.” Local ski patroller Lonnie Ball was the first to take on the slope in 1967, with Corbet eventually skiing his namesake run soon after.

Today, Corbet’s has been skied by women, men, and even small children. It’s been rated #4 on the “Top Fifty Things for Skiers to Do Before They Die” and holds an international reputation among expert skiers and snowboarders.

How to Ski Corbet’s Couloir

Corbet’s Couloir is a high-speed run that requires good conditions and powerful, technical moves. To enter the couloir, skiers must drop off a cliff and free fall for 10 to 20 feet before landing on the narrow slope. (Plenty of spectators gather to watch skiers/riders drop in). The rest of Corbet's Couloir is an average expert run. Because relatively few people brave this slope, Corbet's is usually blanketed with fresh powder.

S&S Couloir

To the left of the mountain’s large rock outcropping is the lesser-known S&S Couloir. This run starts off with a 20+ foot drop and, although rarely open, requires permission from the Ski Patrol. The trail was named for Charlie Sands and John Simms, the first two patrollers to execute the run successfully.

Warnings

We know how exciting it is to check something off of your bucket list. But it’s important to stay safe while doing so! Ski patrol will close Corbet’s Couloir if it gets too icy and potentially very dangerous. The rest is up to the skier or rider’s discretion. If conditions aren’t optimal, be prepared to say no and try again another time.

Kings & Queens of Corbet's

Since 2018, the Kings & Queens of Corbet's event has brought some of the world's top skiers and snowboarders together at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort to compete in a freeride contest for the titles of King and Queen. The competing athletes take to Corbet's Couloir and showcase incredible skill with big tricks. 

Come Home to The Bentwood Inn!

Just a ten-minute drive from the resort, our Jackson Hole inn is the perfect place to unwind after you take on Corbet’s Couloir. Feel free to rest in one of our gorgeous guest rooms, or cuddle up by a crackling fire in our lodge. You’ll even be treated to a delicious gourmet breakfast each morning of your stay. Check our rooms page to see what’s available and contact us to make your reservations. We look forward to having you!

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