Burnt Trees

Date de l’accident

vendredi 14 mars 2025

Avalanche size/type: Size 2.5, deep persistent slab

Aspect: NW

Elevation: 2100 m

Number caught: 1

Number deceased: 1

Description: After skiing Pipestone Bowl (terrain which is outside of the Lake Louise ski area), two skiers were working back to the ski area in their downhill gear with skins. At approximately 1500 hrs, the party triggered an avalanche that propagated to the steeper terrain overhead and the second skier in the party got caught. He was carried 50 m and buried 150-200 cm deep. The partner conducted a transceiver search, extricated the skier, initiated first aid, and activated 911. Parks Canada Visitor Safety evacuated the party to Emergency Medical Services. The skier did not survive.

Photo of the avalanche with a red dot indicating the approximate trigger point. Notably, there are small to medium sized trees in the start zone and track.