Stowe Mountain Rescue have issued a warning to backcountry skiers and snowboarders not to rely on a map that was published on social media of backcountry ski lines in the Stowe area after having to rescue multiple ill-fated people who followed it. The most recent rescue operation was undertaken by a Stowe Mountain Rescue crew who came to the aid of a skier near Smuggler’s Notch in Vermont on Monday, February 2nd, 2026. The skier was reportedly searching for a line he had seen on a map online.
“Yesterday we were called out to assist a backcountry skier who was going after a line he had seen on that same map. Not knowing the terrain well, he took the wrong chute and it could have cost him his life. He found himself above an icy cliff band and had no option but to climb 700 vertical feet back up the gulley. It was dangerous, exhausting and time-consuming and he lost a ski and a pole in the process. Even once he had regained the ridge, he was facing a long retreat that he was utterly unprepared for, in terms of both time and equipment. We were able to assist by intersecting his route and delivering snowshoes, food, water, warm gloves and a ride down the mountain after dark by snowcat, courtesy of Stowe Mountain Resort.” -Stowe Mountain Rescue
While the publishing of the backcountry guide last winter was well intentioned, the information has proved too tantalizing for underprepared skiers and snowboarders looking to get fresh line in terrain they are not familiar with.
“Call us the Fun Police, but sometimes a little information can be a dangerous thing, and it seemed like a well-intentioned gesture that had the potential to backfire.” -Stowe Mountain Rescue
Stowe Mountain Rescue is not discouraging folks from exploring the backcountry, rather they are urging people to do it safely by accompanying people who are versed in the area and not solely relying on an online map.
“We stand by our assertion that the only way to learn backcountry ski lines is to go with someone who knows the terrain. Learn where to go firsthand, from a guide if necessary. The terrain in Smugglers Notch is way too dangerous to risk route-finding mistakes. And when you’re skiing in the backcountry, always have a ski buddy and a plan B in mind – if you can’t achieve your intended route, where is your exit ramp and how long will it take? Then carry all the equipment you need to execute your mission safely.”
Route finding mistakes can have very serious consequences. Take these recommendations to heart and be safe out there folks.
