Snowmobiler Aidan shared footage from a near-death avalanche experience on Hahns Peak northeast of Steamboat Lake. The slide occurred on February 20, with Aidan caught and fully buried for around 10 minutes.
Aidan was able to wiggle his arm, punching it through the snow surface to create and air space. Eventually he managed to radio to his friends for help and got debris removed from around his head after about 10 minutes.
He was eventually freed from the snow after several hours. Aidan’s story highlights the importance of taking nature seriously, sticking with friends or a group in the backcountry, and making sure you have the proper gear and training while in avalanche terrain. He’s incredibly fortunate that he was able to dig his way out to safety.
Colorado Avalanche Information Center Basic Avalanche Safety:
Avalanches are possible any time you have snow on a slope. The best thing you can do before you head into the mountains is check the avalanche forecast.
If you are traveling where there isn’t a current avalanche forecast, here are some simple things that will help you avoid avalanches.
- Avalanches are possible when you have snow on a slope steeper than about 30 degrees.
- Most avalanches happen during or soon after a big snowstorm, period of strong winds, or during a thaw (rapid increase in temperature).
- Signs of higher avalanche danger include recent avalanches, cracking in the snow, and audible collapsing. Avoid traveling on or under similar slopes.
If you want to dig deeper, you can view a list of educational resources on our Education Resources page.