The FIFTY - 38/50 - A Return to the Steeps - The Sphinx, AK

[@liflal]

One of those lines where the conditions are good enough for Cody to show just how beautiful of a skiier he is.

[@Whistler326]

No kidding....he is NO newbie (his words not mine...lol)

[@arildhestvik2150]

I agree

[@austindobbs5419]

Yeeeeessssssss Alaska episodes are always the best

[@CodyTownsend]

agreed. they're my favorite to do as well.

I can't believe this video was less than 15 mins. It felt so much longer because of how well you guys tell the story and because of how much work you put into it. Amazing job, keep it up! Can't wait for more lines!

[@CodyTownsend]

Thank you so much.

[@Whistler326]

Ditto....OMG, Soo good Quality vs Quantity!!!

[@avening1974]

Cody and Nick have great chemistry. Keep it up boys!!

[@alehax27]

so f-ing sick and the cinematography was just as epic

[@jtcollins2112]

Every time I watch this it gets me so nervous. Epic day.

[@davidmailman8601]

Cody! I can't believe I only found out about The Fifty a few months ago! Blame the snowboarder in me! Anyway, you're as much a legend as always and I've been loving the series, but Nick Russell is my new favorite freerider ever! One last thing, congrats on parenthood. Now, #hereholdmyteenager! Keep shredding, bro!

[@CodyTownsend]

Mailman! It's been too long since I've heard that perfect Americanized fluent French voice! Thanks for the kind words and stoked you found the show. All the best my man.

[@edog623]

When I started watching The 50 Project during the first season, the episode where you turned around on this route got me hooked. This wasn't just a ski video, this is real talk about risk and consequence in the backcountry. It's gratifying to see you get back to the line and crush it. Can't wait to see what's next.

[@CodyTownsend]

Thank you for that man. Much appreciated.

[@SwiftAnthony]

The sequence from around 10 minute mark is a masterpiece, cinematography, music, skiing, everything. Just incredible.

[@travissimpson9825]

Fave Fifty so far. Concise, gorgeous, steep. Southeast Alaska is paradise on earth.

[@lucindapacker6510]

Incredible footage, and another amazing episode

[@CodyTownsend]

Thank you.

[@steveilg6134]

Y’all are crushing not only the 50, but? As a 60 year-old high mountain athlete? Gotta say you boyz are elevating the aesthetics of mountain athletics in a manner that makes me grateful that my 15 year old daughter can learn from and be inspired by. Head bowed from the San Juans…🙏

[@Whistler326]

LOve ...absolutely love that season 4 is dedicated to the biggest Badass of ski mountaineering...RIP Hilaree and prayers for her boys!!! Cdn skier and snowboarder!!!

[@scottpratico1315]

Watching the 2 drop ins from Nick and Cody was surreal. Like they are stepping off the chairlift. So calm and sure. Now I want to see the drone pilot and guide runs down.

[@crazybeardjones]

Nick is always my favorite addition to the crew!

[@Whistler326]

Nick Rocks!!!

[@KevinSmith-wr1sy]

drone footage - off the hook. Congrats boys!

[@ChrisMillerLite]

Can't believe I get to watch this awesome content for free. I'll be sad when it's done. It's been an incredible journey

[@ballhockey10]

When you get the text from the boys you gotta say 'yes'. Words to live by. Great episode!

[@boatman2801]

The production value and storytelling in these are second to none in mountain sports. Great stuff Cody and Bjarne

[@zacdavis9806]

it's not like I don't like the episodes where you turn back, but it is always awesome to see a big line checked off

[@CodyTownsend]

I agree with that sentiment fully.

[@joelwhitmore3550]

Nick is the man. A true G

[@124Outdoor]

I watch these for the climb more than the ski, and that climb was the dogs bollocks! One of my favorites so far. Keep doing what you’re doing! Thanks! 🙏🏼

[@JS-yj7ow]

Living vicariously through Cody and his team makes me very happy. Especially after a long day of work. Nice job guys. Hopefully I'll be on my sticks soon. got a new backcountry dog to train up.

[@Whistler326]

Agreed.....something to look forward too!!!

[@1967andrewd]

Cody that was insane! I have watched every episode you have done and this one was easily my fave. Those conditions were all time. Great job to all!

[@CodyTownsend]

Thank you. It was definitely a fun one to do.

[@KapitanWalnut]

Redemption! Beautiful day, beautiful line, beautiful episode!

[@CodyTownsend]

Thank you much.

[@Whistler326]

Its nice to see you back in the steep Powder.....and total respect for season 4 being dedicated to Hilaree Oneil Nelson, She is truly inspirational like yourself ...Line 36 with Jim and Hill is one of my favourites!!! Ps sympathies go out to YOU sir, and the many that personally knew Hilaree ....it is a tragic loss but one that we can celebrate knowing that she lived a life well lived...and shared it with the world, her legacy lives on through people like yourself and of course The North Face!!! RIP Hilaree and prayers for her beautiful boys!!! Warmest of regards, 1000 islands Canada

[@CodyTownsend]

Right back at ya Bruce.

[@EricSheffey]

The footage of y'all hitting the line literally gave me chills. So sick, and such an incredible edit.

[@CBonesey]

Incredible redemption. You boys truly earned that one, and how beautiful it was. Well done.

[@CodyTownsend]

Thank you kindly!

[@mdherynk]

Conditions were clearly better than the first time, but this still looks heebee-jeebee steep! Episodes 8&9 are two of my favorites, even as “failures”, because of the measured cautious approach you guys took. Makes this victory more meaningful.

[@theinbetweenisours]

This moves me. PNH is one of my favourite places on earth. Quinner, Jess and the gang make you feel at home. The Sphinx is the reason I first went there. Watching Jess McMillan and Ingrid Backstrom ski the Sphinx is what drew me to Alaska and PNH for the first time. Being there is what brought me back many more. I've watched that scene with Maroon 5 blaring in the background more times than I can count. I finally got to see the Sphinx my last visit to PNH. I sat humbled in that heli. Pictures, video don't really show how intimidating that descent is. Watching you guy's climb and ski it, like I said - I'm moved. I'll be playing this episode on repeat.

[@CodyTownsend]

🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@mtadams2009]

Congratulations Cody. You made that look easy, which is a big compliment. That is a serious line. Stay safe and take care

[@sean7879Outdoor]

If Cody is only just now feeling less like a noob, we're all screwed, absolutely god level skills on display!

[@CodyTownsend]

Hahaha. I was quite skilled in the down, in snow evaluation and skiing big lines...the climbing for them thing was a whole new world for me when I started.

[@glennhalverson1016]

Amazing, best line yet. Way ta man up guys.

[@3Elements]

“Feeling like a little less of a noob” Ha ha okayyyyyyy. Anyway these are really great, it’s pretty fun to start cheering you on as you nail some of the past partial completes.

[@returningtoearthtv8836]

Congratulations Fellas! What a day! I love how at the end Cody is still geared up and the rest of the team has taken off most of theirs. Looks like it was one of those days to just keep it going as long as possible. Just dreamy.

[@CodyTownsend]

I definitely could’ve made a few more laps up there!

[@kendestine9905]

I’ve been watching since the beginning and the journey you e been through has been amazing to watch. Mad props for everything you do. You are a true inspiration. Thank you. 🙏

[@CoffeeKillersClub]

I've been watching you since you started The FIFTY. You all are real adventurers. To me you guys aren't just entertainment. I understand the risk and reward of the adventure... After a multiyear slump, I hope I can find some inspiration in your new posts. What you're doing is real, raw, and one for the books. Stay safe.

[@CodyTownsend]

Thank you Jeremy. Hope you pull outta that slump and have a great winter.

[@paulroggeveen8211]

Sensational line, sensational skiing, sensational footage, simply sensational!

[@CodyTownsend]

Many thanks!

[@MurrayPeeps]

Incredibly picturesque line. Fantastic work all around. My goodness

[@zughoytim]

Wow these drone shots are unbelievable!! Amazing film, thanks guys!

[@ecka4x4]

I think your comment of calling this a Karmic run was right on the money. For all the struggle, learning & determination over the years of this project & showing us all a more pure way of experiencing the mountains & all they bless us with. Your work is always got such a great vibe because of who you are & those with you. It inspires to us to embrace the journey of life in all aspects. It's not just an adrenaline filled blast on perfect snow & blue skies, but a warts & all rollercoaster that's full of lessons, trials & rewards. Congrats on this epic line, truly one of the best so far. Can't wait to see the next clip. Best wishes to you all & your family from Australia.

[@CodyTownsend]

🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@davegordon1537]

Getting back and nailing the second attempt! fantastic. Easily my favourite episode, the conditions and skiing on that line were amazing!

[@matthewtraver2895]

I’ve loved watching the iterative battle with the Sphinx over the years…it happens to be my bday, and what a sick episode to release! Fueled my stoke today. Right on Fifty crew.

[@CodyTownsend]

Happy Birthday Matthew!

[@Whistler326]

Agreed....Cody definitely fuels many viewers stoke...cant wait for some snow!!! Happy Bday

[@matthewtraver2895]

@@Whistler326 Couldn’t agree more!! Can’t wait to sink my crampons into some splitter snowpack.

[@matthewtraver2895]

@@CodyTownsend No way! Thanks Cody!! Absolutely love your content! Thanks for inspiring the next gen of climbers/skiers alike. Especially as a family man. God Bless out there!

[@poisonspyder406]

Turning around in the mountains sucks, but when you go back and achieve the goal it makes all the hardship worth it! Awesome job for persevering Fifty Team

[@KootsD]

Heck yeah boys! Beauty of a day.

[@LukasBrand]

that was a well earned perfect day it seems. music choice and the drone shots - everything - awesome!

[@travisjohnson8210]

Hero turns buddy! That fuggggginn ripped!

[@johnblincoe6554]

Just amazing!!! Such a story of patience and redemption. One of the best episodes yet. Keep up the strong work, Cody!!!

[@nathanstone7984]

Nice one, glad you guys came back and crushed it out in good conditions.

[@christophhell7342]

I watched the first Sphinx episode yesterday! So stoked about this Episode

[@jarman2311]

Incredible work all around team. Thank you for sharing this.

[@CodyTownsend]

🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼

[@velpay]

This is one of my favourite episodes of The Fifty. So well done.

[@davisbenn2179]

I watched the other episode prior to this one with my wife and wow the cinematography has improved so much. Kudos to Bjarne for improving his craft and to your drone pilot who got some feature film level shots with that drone.

[@jeremywagner9644]

Excellent choices made. Thanks for your stories.

[@PaulTylerPhoto]

Another great video and the drone footage is truly stunning. The angles and the scale that the footage shows are incredible. Always looking forward to the next one!

[@steveclark5586]

Followed this series from day 1! Don’t feel like 3 years old.

[@therussellfreerange5269]

live near Seattle, Washington. This weekend I spent time at a popular resort called Crystal Mountain near Mount Rainier. I first noticed a gentleman ski down the mountain with an avalanche backpack with the airbag deployed. Moments later that same guy noticed me and said "hey are you Cody" as he was referring to my long hair looking similar to yours. I said no. He started to explain they were filming an episode of your airbag avalanche backpack. Just like you. Thought I kinda looked like you. Instantly we were celebrating how two complete strangers knows Cody Townsend. So cool you are entertaining and showing safety.

[@CodyTownsend]

Awesome story man. Thanks for sharing. Got a chuckle out of it.

[@alexandregoulet1639]

This was a fun one! Cool mix of what The Fifty does best: badass ascents and good ol' ski porn/badass descents. Oh and badass approaches are also fun, but I think it's because we just enjoy watching you suffer a bit. Nice work to the whole team.

[@lance31415]

Brings back memories of hanging at the NEF cannery w/ Quinner & Jess and all the awesome lines. Good times in Cordova.

[@EK-mx7zb]

Totally amazing, poetry in motion and in execution. Great run!

[@word67]

Breathtaking. You all earned this one. Climbing the steeps through deep snow is a tough test. The drone footage is just amazing too.

[@jordanfairchild7139]

Russel with the celebration Rainer!

[@dreadiedude]

This was an amazing episode. Grats on the peak!

[@kla4285]

That was friggen awesome! Well done!

[@ferrells0987]

fully gripped watching this. beautiful camera work

[@MF1328]

Outstanding to see you go back and nail it

[@freash59]

This is next level Cody!! I appreciate you sticking to your guns and hiking up the line. It adds another great perspective of the line. #NightmaresWithNick

[@stumpy25lbs]

Nick Russell.. legend 🤘🏼🙏🏼

[@alec2243]

Congratulations. Those first turns looked unreal.

[@CodyTownsend]

They felt unreal!

[@randyspotts5069]

Great Summit! And it's inspiring to see Nick Russell practicing what he preaches... "Bring your electrolytes..." Rainier Beer no less!

[@IdRatherBeHiking]

Let's take a moment to recognize Nick for flying the drone clung to the side of this massive snowy mountain. Not only did you guys get good snow conditions, good wind conditions to get those drone shots.

[@lukebohemian]

I was so so nervous watching you guys boot pack ! 😬

[@noahi]

Favorite skier. Thanks bjarne

[@CodyTownsend]

Yes, Thanks Bjarne. He killed it filming this one.

[@ToblerX]

Drone footage was amazing.

[@sergioroman7862]

you guys are doing incredible things , well done

[@DreadRoberts732]

Watching you climb makes my heart race

[@CodyTownsend]

Me too!

[@mattomann1093]

Wow. After being up on the knife's edge on Capitol, I have a whole new respect for these lines you're climbing. Also, Bjarne Show us your new Van build!!

[@mansoaptheif]

This is just nuts man

[@mary-ellenmayoh9698]

Comparing the first attempt on the Sphinx and this time was amazing! Well done guys, this was just outstanding 🤘. Everyone looked so chill and comfortable, it’s a credit to the amount of learning and suffering you’ve done over the years. Coincidently, recently rewatched the Mt Stimpson (31/50) episode…Damn did Nick deserve the heli ride and the bomber conditions this time round 😂.

[@codytestroet3774]

So cool to see you guys get back and stomp it!

[@dougmarder]

In your dreams they must all look like this. Outstanding! Congrats on another successful mission. Hope you make the rest look just as easy (and safe).

[@outsidereids]

That was awesome! Thanks...

[@CodyTownsend]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@TheHowtoDad]

Best episode yet!

[@raimundojustbeingme5143]

That was one amazing line. So happy for you all. Sick line bro. Love it

[@NeilMcElmon]

Absolutely stellar footage as always!! Love watching these

[@joezim4254]

That was just so sick.

[@MattPadwick]

Got excited with ye packing in the airport carpark and my heart is still going.... Great to see the three amigos nail 5* conditions. ThanX for sharing the adventure. Stay safe

[@daveg8212]

Excellent episode! Your storytelling and filming and editing (and skiing, of course) are totally on point! And it's so refreshing to see a fellow snowboarder (Nick!) represented in The Fifty! Looking forward to future episodes.

[@CodyTownsend]

Thank you Dave. Much appreciated.

[@Whistler326]

This Cdn is definitely addicted to his wonderful videos!!!

[@jerrybennett5753]

Just perfect. You are all an inspiration :)

[@MurCurieux]

Nice to see a decent that wasn’t torture for the first half.

[@jasoncapell]

Still remember seeing this for the first time on TB5, pretty sure it was a first decent on that one. Well done boys!

[@CodyTownsend]

It was! Jim Rippey opened it up. In legendary style too

[@Mr10damers]

Another great video everyone!!

[@kevinw1129]

Wow, what a line. Amazing footage. 👏👏👏👏👏

[@michaelcwirth]

Wow. Stellar. Look at that cold smoke overhead spray. Beautiful job!

[@CodyTownsend]

Thanks Michael!

[@AlexLandress]

That was some sick climbing shots! Great vid

[@edwardconover4728]

Buddy!! Absolutely glorious! So psyched for you guys.

[@TheSavacc]

Awesome...great camera work all the way through.

[@colincarver893]

Duuuude(s) soooo stoked. Ya nailed the conditions. Fuuukinsiiiiik. Jealous

[@robertvroege7219]

Brilliant episode. Nice music choice too. Loved every minute building up to ticking off another one in style!

[@gregknipe8772]

thank you

[@slimdog72]

Sooo goood, thanks gentlemen.