Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park

Publication Year: 1968.

Wyoming, Grand Teton National Park, Symmetry Spire. On 8 August Sheldon Smith (18) and James Erickson (18) were climbing on Symmetry Spire. According to Smith, he slipped on the snow patch in Symmetry Couloir about 20 feet above the bottom. He was using a stick to glissade with, but sat on his seat when he slipped instead of digging in his toes and hands or elbows and therefore, went into the rocks. Party made its own way out. Smith was slightly bruised.

Source: Dunbar G. Susong, Park Ranger.

Analysis: Lack of knowledge and experience in glissading.