Avalanche Nightmare: Skier's Close Call on Mines Peak Highlights Backcountry Dangers

A solo backcountry skier experienced a harrowing ordeal on December 3 when he was caught in an avalanche on Mines Peak near Berthoud Pass. The incident unfolded despite the skier’s initial intentions to avoid avalanche-prone terrain, highlighting the unpredictable nature of winter sports in Colorado’s backcountry. According to the final report released by the Colorado Avalanche Information Center on Monday, the skier had originally planned to stick to low-angle, well-traveled slopes but deviated from his route to test the snow conditions. This decision led him into Mines 2, an avalanche path that would become a deadly trap. On that fateful day, the avalanche center had rated the avalanche danger in the area as “considerable” (Level 3 of 5), particularly at tree line where the skier triggered a hard-slab avalanche. This slide swept him approximately 400 feet through treacherous terrain, leaving him partially buried under debris with his face and head covered about six inches deep. The avalanche, which measured about 2 feet in depth and was over 600 feet wide, caused significant destruction as it descended 800 vertical feet. In a remarkable display of resilience, the skier, despite suffering a dislocated shoulder, was able to dig himself out of the snow. He managed to free himself enough to call for help with his cellphone. His location was perilous, buried under the snow with an injury that would have deterred many from even attempting to escape. Prior to the skier's accident, natural avalanches had already occurred in the vicinity, including a significant slide in the adjacent Mines 1 path. The avalanche center noted that the skier did not notice the prior slide, underscoring the importance of vigilance in the backcountry. He later admitted that he failed to take a moment to reassess his situation, a lapse in judgment that could have cost him dearly. The report emphasized that the avalanche was a result of a persistent slab problem in the region, stemming from a combination of October storms that laid down a weak layer of snow followed by stiff, wind-drifted layers from early November. This precarious snowpack contributed to the skier's unfortunate experience. After escaping the avalanche debris, the skier hiked downhill toward U.S. Highway 40, where he was eventually met by search and rescue teams about an hour and a half later. He was transported by ambulance to receive emergency medical care. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in backcountry skiing, particularly during a winter season marked by unpredictable weather patterns. It highlights the importance of adhering to avalanche forecasts and sticking to planned routes, especially in areas where natural slides have been reported. As winter sports enthusiasts prepare for the season, experts continue to advise caution and thorough preparation to ensure safety in the backcountry.