Avalanche on Hillman's Highway on December 24.
Avalanche on Hillman's Highway on December 24.

A large avalanche was observed in real time along Hillman’s Highway in Tuckerman Ravine on Mount Washington, caught on camera by people at the Appalachian Mountain Club Caretaker’s Cabin.

According to the observation made by professional observer Jeff Fongemie of the Mount Washington Avalanche Center, avalanche debris following the slide was measured to be at a depth of 150 to 170 cm and appeared fragmented. Several small snowfalls in the days leading up to the slide put 1 to 4 inches of fresh snow on the ground.

An experienced team went to the avalanche debris following the slide to check for any evidence of human involvement, but did not find any signs or signals from an avalanche beacon. The crew intentionally spent a minimal amount of time in the debris field to limit exposure to potential secondary avalanches.

Nolan Deck is a writer for Unofficial Networks, covering skiing and outdoor adventure. After growing up and skiing in Maine, he moved to the Denver area for college where he continues to live and work...