Fall on Snow, Ski Mountaineering — Alberta, Rocky Mountains, Peyto Glacier

Publication Year: 1985.

FALL ON SNOW, SKI MOUNTAINEERING

Alberta, Rocky Mountains, Peyto Glacier

On April 15, 1984, in Banff National Park, a party of six ski mountaineers traveled from the Icefield Parkway, via Peyto Lake, to the Peter and Catherine Whyte hut at 2500 meters on the Peyto Glacier. The group was equipped with light touring skis, overnight camping gear, and glacier travel equipment. At 1830, after dinner, the group decided to go for one last ski. One member of the group (53) fell just below the hut and broke her ankle. The other members of the group administered first aid and took her up to the hut where they spent the night. The following morning two of them skied out and reported the accident to the Lake Louise warden office. The rescue team evacuated the victim by helicopter. (Source: Banff Park Warden Service)

Analysis

The victim was experienced, having been ski-mountaineering and touring in the Rockies for 15 years. A last ski run after dinner after a strenuous day may not be a good idea. Prudence is required in a place where rescue is possible only over difficult terrain or by air. (Source: Banff Park Warden Service)