Tragic Avalanche Near Kaslo, British Columbia, Claims Three Lives in Devastating Heli-Skiing Accident

Kaslo, BC – A catastrophic avalanche near Kaslo, British Columbia, claimed the lives of three heli-skiers on Monday afternoon, marking one of the deadliest backcountry tragedies of the season. The avalanche, which occurred at approximately 1:00 p.m. PT in the Clute Creek watershed, southeast of the village of Kaslo, took place while a group was heli-skiing with Stellar Heliskiing, a well-known adventure tour operator in the region.

The Avalanche and Rescue Efforts

According to a statement from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), two groups of skiers had just completed a run in a high alpine bowl and were positioned in a staging area below the treeline when the avalanche struck. A transport helicopter, preparing to collect the skiers, noticed the massive slide cascading down the mountain and sounded a siren to alert those on the ground.

While one group managed to escape, a second group of four skiers was caught in the powerful snow slide, which swept them through the trees, leaving a devastating path in its wake.

Victims Identified

Despite immediate search and rescue efforts, three individuals tragically lost their lives in the avalanche:

• A 44-year-old man from Whistler, British Columbia
• A 45-year-old man from Idaho, USA
• Their 53-year-old guide, a Kaslo resident

A fourth individual, a 40-year-old man from Nelson, British Columbia, survived but suffered critical injuries. He was airlifted to a medical facility, where he is currently receiving treatment. His condition has not yet been publicly updated.

Investigation and Avalanche Conditions

Authorities and avalanche experts are now investigating the incident, trying to determine what factors led to the deadly slide. Avalanche Canada had issued warnings in the days prior, cautioning that backcountry conditions were highly unstable due to recent snowfall and fluctuating temperatures.

Stellar Heliskiing, the heli-skiing operator involved, has not yet released an official statement but is reportedly cooperating with investigators. The company, which operates in the rugged and remote terrain of the Selkirk and Purcell mountain ranges, has long been known for its guided skiing tours catering to experienced backcountry enthusiasts.

Community Mourning and Safety Concerns

The small mountain town of Kaslo, as well as Whistler, Nelson, and the broader ski community, is mourning the loss of three experienced backcountry adventurers. The tragedy has once again highlighted the risks associated with heli-skiing and off-piste skiing, even when guided by professionals.

Backcountry experts continue to stress the importance of avalanche safety training, proper gear, and risk assessment for anyone venturing into the mountains. The unpredictability of snowpack conditions remains a serious concern, particularly as climate changes continue to impact avalanche activity in regions like British Columbia.

Ongoing Investigation and Calls for Awareness

Authorities are urging backcountry travelers to exercise extreme caution, emphasizing that even experienced skiers and professional guides can be caught in sudden avalanches. More details about the victims and the survivor’s recovery are expected in the coming days.

As the ski community mourns this tragic loss, safety advocates hope that heightened awareness will prevent further disasters in the backcountry this season.