FALLING OFF A CORNICE

Alberta, Rocky Mountains, Mt. Assiniboine

Aliester (Bugs) McKeith and two companions were climbing the north face of Mt. Assiniboine on 17 June 1978. About 1500 hours, McKeith went on alone toward the summit in blowing snow with intermittent visibility, while his companions belayed up the final steep section. When they reached the ridge, they found McKeith’s tracks ending where a cornice had broken off. He had fallen down the 750-meter east face, and his body was found at the foot three days later. (Source: T. Auger)

Analysis

McKeith was a very experienced climber, but had made a classic mistake. (Source: T. Auger)