backcountry rescues News

Pennsylvania to Close Popular Hiking Trail, Citing Safety

JIM THORPE, Pa. — Pennsylvania officials are closing one of the most scenic and popular hiking trails in the state because of longstanding concerns about its safety, prompting backlash from hikers. The Pennsylvania Game Commission is closing the main Glen …

Risk of Being in an Avalanche Drops in Groups of 2 or Less

Avalanches are the primary hazard for winter backcountry recreationists and cause numerous deaths and injuries annually. As winter backcountry activities increase in popularity, avalanches are a very real risk for adventurers who choose to travel off the beaten path. A …

Avalanche Safety Message Targeted to Younger Crowds

Walker Smith has been skiing in-bounds at resorts since he was young, but lately the Seattle teen has become more interested “in getting tracks where no one else has really gone.” He knows backcountry travel comes with avalanche risks, he …

Parents Sue Alaska Company After Son’s Avalanche Death

The parents of a 26-year-old snowboarder who died after an Alaska avalanche have filed a federal lawsuit against a heli-skiing company, alleging it failed to assess the danger in the area. Nickolay Dobov of Truckee, California, died after the March …

Winter Storms Cause Rise in Avalanche Deaths

Skiers and snowboarders rejoiced when a series of storms dumped several feet of snow in the mountains across the West. But all the new snow and strong winds in the past month have fueled dangerous conditions from the Cascades to …

Moderate Slide Risk in Wyoming and Idaho Backcountry

Backcountry users in northwestern Wyoming and eastern Idaho are being warned to be careful following two avalanche deaths. The Bridger-Teton National Forest Avalanche Center rated the avalanche danger as moderate above 7,500 feet Friday. It says clear skies and warm …

Colorado Avalanche Monitor Expanding Service

Colorado avalanche forecasters are expanding their services. The Friends of the Colorado Avalanche Information Center organization is raising funds to keep forecasters focused on forecasting and providing avalanche education for backcountry users. According to the Denver Post, one of the …

Liability an Issue for Colorado Ski Patrols

Colorado ski areas and sheriffs are becoming increasingly concerned over liability for dangerous backcountry rescues outside ski area boundaries. Steamboat ski patrollers have taken part in two dozen rescues this season. Vail is also participating. Sheriffs and ski areas are …