A skier was severely injured after falling approximately 65 feet into a crevasse on the Columbia Icefield on Friday, April 18th.
According to Mountain Conditions Report made by Parks Canada, Parks Canada Visitor Safety and Alpine Helicopters were dispatched to the location near the top of Athabasca Glacier inside Jasper National Park. Rescue efforts were complicated by numerous crevasses in the area surrounding the accident site.
There are no further information on the condition of the victim. Read the full incident report below.
Association of Canadian Mountain Guides Incident Report:
On April 18, Parks Canada Visitor Safety and Alpine Helicopters responded to a serious incident involving an unroped crevasse fall near the top of the Athabasca Glacier. A skier descending the glacier fell approximately 20 metres into a crevasse, sustaining significant injuries. The rescue was further complicated by numerous crevasses in the surrounding area.
This incident serves as an important reminder that spring conditions on glaciers present significant and often hidden hazards. While crevasses may be less visible at this time of year, snow bridges remain thin, weak, and unpredictable, having only recently formed over the past few weeks.
Glacier travel requires advanced knowledge, proper equipment, and the ability to respond effectively to crevasse falls, including self-rescue as a roped team. Individuals traveling on glaciated terrain should be well-versed in crevasse rescue techniques and travel as part of a properly equipped and experienced group.
Parks Canada urges all backcountry users to assess conditions carefully, make informed decisions, and prioritize safety at all times.
images from Parks Canada
