Pontoon Peak, Southeast Ridge

Pontoon sits in the dead center of the Chugatch Range // [o] @ming.t.poon

Pontoon sits in the dead center of the Chugatch Range // [o] @ming.t.poon

 

Elevation: 6634’ 2022m

Aspect: Southeast

Vertical: 3,800’

Coordinates: 60°52’30”N 145°31’09”W

First descent: Petersen, Pehota 1992

Pontoon Peak is remote—35 miles from the nearest road. Climbing it can take 8—12 hours depending on conditions and involves negotiating pitches of 70° snow.

“I don’t want to come home and be angry at myself because I made a stupid decision. A dear friend of mine taught me that.”
— Bjarne Salén
The weather window for the strike mission to Alaska continues to hold. Yet the real question is will one of the most prized, exposed and magnificent lines in the Chugach be skiable. Staring Points North Heli Tour Camp guides Brennan Lagasse and Jeff Dostie, Ming Poon, Bjarne Salen and Cody Townsend.