Avalanche accident

Incident Report

After skiing Pipestone Bowl, (out of bounds from Lake Louise ski area) 2 skiers were working back to the ski area on a flagged traverse line in their downhill gear. At 1500 hrs, Skier 1 triggered the avalanche on a 25 degree slope that propagated to the steeper terrain overhead. He was carried 50 m and buried 150-200 cm deep. Skier 2 conducted a transceiver search, excavated Skier 1, and initiated first aid. Park Canada Visitor Safety evacuated the party to Emergency Medical Services.