Avalanche: Pioneer Ridge

Incident Overview

While skiing with a group of four on the North Ridge of Pioneer Peak, I triggered an avalanche that carried me approximately 240 feet into the right side of Martha Bowl. I stayed on the surface throughout the slide and deployed my airbag for safety. No injuries occurred, and the rest of the group was unaffected.

Details of the Incident

Terrain: North-facing slope with a heavily corniced ridge. Limited space between the trees and cornice forced me into steeper terrain on the skier's left, above Martha Bowl.

Trigger: The avalanche released after about 20- 30 feet of skiing while traversing into the ridge. A second pocket broke, pushing me farther to the right.

Outcome: I remained on the surface, deployed my airbag, and was carried into the right side of Martha Bowl.

Lessons Learned

Thin snowpack over rocky areas is particularly unstable and requires extra caution.

Large cornices can limit route options, forcing exposure to steeper terrain.

Previous ski tracks do not guarantee slope stability.

Takeaway

This incident was a reminder to evaluate snowpack carefully, avoid thin spots, and always be prepared with proper safety gear.

On January 17, 2025 a UAC field team visited this site. You can read their observation HERE.