From Naples Florida to the Lip - 3/2/26

Guest Blog: Jon Ellis, Insta: jonellis08

My dad and I have been excitedly planning our trip to Tuckerman's Ravine for the past 4 years. When we both had a free weekend at the beginning of March, we decided to book our flight from Florida to Portland Maine, and we hoped the conditions would line up. 

The conditions lined up perfectly for us: low avalanche danger and bluebird day. Our only concerns was the potential for sub zero windchill, or a chance that the snow was too firm. We arrived at Pinkham Notch Trailhead at 7:40am and began our ascent of the Tuckerman Ravine Approach Trail. 

As we ascended the trail, we were met with excellent conditions. The snow was grip-able, and we the sun made it feel like a warm April day. When we finally made it to the Hermit Lake hut we were blessed with a clear view of the Ravine, and the sun felt like a warm hug.

We then scrambled our way over huge rocks and steep snow to the base of the bowl. Then, we were met with a big decision, with incredible lines surrounding us, it was hard to pick just one. We decided on the Lip. 

After an exciting boot-pack up, we transitioned to skis, and ripped incredible turns all the way down to the bottom of the bowl. We then descended down the Sherburne Ski Trail and back to the car.