Solo Skier Survives Being Carried and Partially Buried in Avalanche Near Aspen, CO

A solo backcountry skier narrowly escaped serious injury after triggering a wet slab avalanche on June 1 in the Fourth of July Bowl area of Independence Pass, near Aspen, Colorado. The skier was swept 400 vertical feet downhill and became partially buried, with his head and one arm above the snow, according to a report on the Colorado Avalanche Information Center’s website. He managed to extricate himself from the debris and, unable to locate his skis, descended on foot to his vehicle.



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The incident occurred around midday, a time when warming temperatures can destabilize the snowpack. Another group of skiers in the vicinity witnessed the slide and assisted the skier after he had freed himself. According to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC), the skier sustained only minor injuries.

Avalanche danger in Colorado remains moderate even as summer approaches. The Aspen Times reports that the CAIC has extended its avalanche forecasts into June, citing ongoing wet slide activity and persistent hazards in high-alpine terrain. Since late May, more than 40 avalanches have been reported, with about 60% classified as large, dangerous wet slab avalanches, according to the Aspen Times article.



Officials urge backcountry travelers to start and end outings early to avoid the most hazardous conditions, which develop as the sun warms the snow. “The best way to reduce the threat from wet avalanche activity is to stick by the mantra: Start early, and end early,” CAIC Deputy Director Brian Lazar told the Aspen Times. East-facing slopes become unstable earlier in the day, while north and west aspects may remain safer slightly longer.

Late-season backcountry skiing around Aspen, including popular zones like the Fourth of July Bowl, continues to attract enthusiasts seeking to extend their ski season. However, experts emphasize the importance of avalanche awareness, proper equipment, and cautious route selection, especially as snow conditions can change rapidly with temperature fluctuations.



Related: [VIDEO] Why Colorado Has Dangerous Avalanches Near Summer



The annual opening of Independence Pass, which occurred on May 22 this year, has made high-alpine terrain more accessible, drawing skiers to classic lines and increasing the need for vigilance in avalanche-prone areas.

Backcountry travelers are advised to check avalanche forecasts, carry essential safety gear, and travel with partners trained in avalanche rescue. Even small avalanches can carry enough wet snow to sweep skiers into hazardous terrain, underscoring the risks that persist well into June.



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