MONTANA – A skier triggered an avalanche in the Super Couloir area of Bridger Bowl on November 6. The avalanche broke 2 to 2.5 feet deep, 20 feet wide, and ran approximately 500 feet. Fortunately, no one was caught in the incident.
The Friends of the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center emphasized that the area within the boundaries of Bridger Bowl currently has a backcountry snowpack. It should be treated with caution until the ski area officially opens and ski patrol begins avalanche mitigation work.
“There are no Ski Patrol services or rescue,” they stated. Skiers are advised to be prepared for partner rescue, which includes having a beacon, shovel, probe, and a partner ready to assist. In case of an emergency, calling 911 is recommended.
The center expressed gratitude to those who sent in photos and video of the avalanche. “We rely on public observations to develop a more complete picture of the avalanche danger,” they said. Observations can be submitted through their website.
As winter approaches, the center urges everyone to make safe decisions while enjoying the new snow. They warned that getting caught in an avalanche with a thin snowpack could result in trauma from hitting rocks and underlying ground surfaces.
