Skier’s Reckless Move Sparks Avalanche at Colorado Resort

Steamboat Ski Resort in Colorado is urging visitors to follow safety protocols after a skier caused an avalanche by entering a closed area. The incident occurred on Saturday when the skier ventured into the Christmas Tree Bowl, a section of Mount Werner that remains off-limits for the 2024-25 season due to unstable conditions.

The skier, who has not been identified, self-reported the incident, prompting a significant response from the ski patrol. Riley Wilkinson, a Steamboat Ski Patrol member, shared that resources were stretched thin, limiting their ability to address other emergencies. “Entering restricted areas endangers everyone,” she said. “It also delays patrol work necessary to open terrain safely for the public.”

In an Instagram video posted on December 28, the resort emphasized the risks of ignoring closures, stating, “Closed trails are closed for a reason.” The Christmas Tree Bowl is typically accessible via the Morningside Liftline, but it remains closed as crews work to stabilize the snowpack.

Steamboat Ski Resort detailed its snow safety measures in a recent blog post. Patrol teams use hand charges to mitigate avalanche risks and perform ski cutting to test snow stability. “Once the snow is stable, we’ll work to open these areas,” the post explained. Until then, skiing in closed terrain is strictly prohibited and could result in revoked ski privileges.

The Colorado Avalanche Information Center issued a high avalanche danger warning for the Park Range and Elkhead Mountains, including Mount Werner, through Monday. This alert highlights risks from above the treeline to lower elevations. Violations of trail closures not only endanger lives but also complicate efforts to manage such hazards effectively.

This incident at Steamboat Ski Resort coincides with frustration at Mammoth Mountain in California, where a viral video showed massive lift lines. Emily van Greuning, a Mammoth Mountain spokesperson, explained that extreme winds caused most lifts to shut down, funneling skiers into one area. “It’s not overcrowding but operational challenges that led to this,” she clarified.

As the ski season unfolds, resorts like Steamboat remind guests that respecting closures is essential for safety. Wilkinson underscored the collective effort required to keep slopes open and safe: “We’re working hard to ensure everyone can enjoy the mountain. Let’s do it responsibly.”

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with skiing in closed areas and the importance of adhering to safety protocols.