Kratka Sunday
Kratka Ridge may not offer the most challenging terrain in Southern California, but for entry-level touring, this ranks easily among the best choices in the San Gabriel Mountains.
Once upon a time Kratka (aka Snowcrest) was a viable two-chair ski resort, with a summit elevation of 7450 feet and a vertical drop of nearly 800 feet. Now it lies long-since abandoned, a victim of the many challenges of operating a low-latitude ski area in the 21st Century.
When there's snow, you'll still find inviting low to moderate-angle slopes along the mountain's western border—making it an excellent place to develop your skills in relative safety.
Unlike nearby Waterman and Buckhorn, Kratka is a straightforward, what-you-see-is-what-you-get kind of place, with very little possibility of getting lost or trapped. If you are new to the area (or the sport) and wondering where should I start?, this is the place.
As for current conditions, the lower elevation melt-out continues. Maybe a final AR storm is in the cards next week; otherwise probably we should be shifting our attention eastward, to Throop and places beyond.
— March 25, 2025
My family and I are deeply grateful to all of you for your kind words, encouragement, and offers of support. Every message and every gesture—big or small—has meant a lot to us. We're doing the best we can ❤️
