Skier Survives Potentially Deadly Avalanche Near Lake Louise Ski Resort
A backcountry skier experienced a harrowing encounter with a size 2 avalanche just outside the boundaries of the Lake Louise Ski Area on Tuesday, January 20, 2026. According to Parks Canada Mountain Safety, the individual managed to escape completely uninjured despite the significant danger posed by this medium-sized avalanche event.
Details of the Avalanche Incident
The avalanche occurred while the skier was descending the backcountry run known as "Vortex" at an elevation of approximately 2,450 metres. Parks Canada Visitor Safety documented the event through a detailed Facebook post that included both videos and photographs of the aftermath. The avalanche was classified as "a deep persistent slab that failed near the ground," indicating particularly unstable snowpack conditions.
The skier became caught in the moving snow and was carried to the bottom of the slope. During this frightening descent, the individual lost both skis and became partially buried up to their waist. Remarkably, despite these circumstances, the skier emerged from the incident without any physical injuries.
Understanding Avalanche Danger Ratings
Avalanche Canada categorizes size 2 avalanches as medium-sized events with the clear capacity to "bury, injure or kill a person." These avalanches represent significant hazards in mountain environments, particularly for backcountry enthusiasts who venture beyond managed ski area boundaries.
Parks Canada officials emphasized in their social media communication that avalanches can occur at any time on slopes steeper than 30 degrees, regardless of posted danger ratings. This serves as a crucial reminder that mountain conditions can change rapidly and unpredictably.
Essential Safety Recommendations
Following this incident, Parks Canada Visitor Safety reiterated important safety protocols for anyone considering backcountry travel in avalanche terrain:
- Acquire proper training in avalanche safety and terrain analysis
- Carry essential rescue equipment including transceivers, probes, and shovels
- Develop sufficient experience to make informed decisions in complex mountain environments
- Check the daily avalanche forecast before any backcountry excursion
- Be prepared to execute self-rescue procedures if necessary
The Lake Louise area, located within Banff National Park, represents popular but potentially hazardous terrain for winter recreation. This incident underscores the importance of proper preparation and respect for mountain environments, even when skiing near established resort boundaries.
