Helicopter rescue following avalanche in Big Cottonwood Canyon

The coordinates of the Little Water Peak avalanche on Feb. 26. Photo: Google // Utah Avalanche Center

Of the four skier in the wake of the avalanche three escape unharmed

BIG COTTONWOOD CANYON, Utah — An injured skier was airlifted from Big Cottonwood Canyon after an avalanche on Little Water Peak. The incident, which occurred on Monday, Feb. 26, involved a two-foot deep avalanche that traveled 450 vertical feet.

Of the four skiers, three escape unharmed, skiing out of the danger zone. However, one female skier suffered from injuries to both upper and lower extremities. She is currently in serious condition, as reported by KSL.

The avalanche, identified as a soft slab type caused by wind-drifted snow, was unintentionally triggered by the skiers. There were no initial signs of instability during their ascent until they were on the northeast face of the ridge, which was notably wind-loaded.

As the group descended, the snow beneath them gave way, triggering the avalanche. The collapse led to all four skiers being caught and carried by the slide, with none completely buried. The skiers attempted to self-rescue, with three managing to reconvene and assist the injured skier until the Department of Public Safety (DPS) helicopter arrived for evacuation.

The Utah Avalanche Center has since emphasized the importance of learning from such incidents, urging the community to refrain from casting blame on those involved. In sharing details of the accident, the center aims to enhance safety awareness and preparedness.