Avalanche: Hellgate

There was some evidence of wind loading by the visibly defined cornices on the ridge above this slope. The cornices were one to two feel tall. We were unable to see the convex feature in the center of the slope from our point of drop-in. We were out on the mountain to do photography. We discussed the line in detail and safety before hand, but did not give the line a proper slope cut, nor did we dig a test pit. We discussed safety exits if things moved, which the skier was able to execute, but not before being pulled down and tumbled once. A shallow rock outcropping slowed the skiers movement as he tumbled, enough to separate him from the slab.