Stock Images of Tuckerman Ravine on Mount Washington
MOUNT WASHINGTON, New Hampshire – On Saturday, Madison Saltsburg, a 20-year-old woman, suffered a fatal fall at Tuckerman Ravine on Mount Washington, plummeting approximately 600 feet down the icy expanse. This incident casts a somber light on the inherent dangers of backcountry skiing, especially in areas known for their unpredictable and often treacherous conditions like Tuckerman Ravine.
Tuckerman Ravine presents a unique set of challenges that demand respect and preparation. According to the U.S. Forest Service, Saltsburg and her skiing companion encountered extremely hard and icy snow surfaces, contributing to the tragic accident. Jeff Fongemie, director of the Mount Washington Avalanche Center, provided insight into the deteriorating conditions, attributing them to a significant reduction in the snowpack over a week, compounded by fluctuating temperatures and wet conditions that subsequently froze, creating a perilously firm surface.
The response to Saltsburg’s fall was swift, with teams from the Mount Washington Avalanche Center and the U.S. Forest Service working diligently to evacuate her from the mountain. The day of the accident was described by Fongemie as unusually busy, with multiple incidents requiring their attention.
The dangers of Tuckerman Ravine were further highlighted by injuries sustained by two other skiers on the same day, caused by falling ice and rocks on the icy and firm snow surface. Thankfully, these individuals are expected to recover from their traumatic injuries. Additionally, several other falls were reported in the steep mountaineering terrain, thankfully without serious injuries, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of the environment.