In-bounds avalanche hits Castle Mountain Resort

PINCHER CREEK (660 NEWS) – Two skiers had to be rescued after an in-bounds avalanche Friday morning at the Castle Mountain resort.

It happened at the top station of the Tamarack (Red) chairlift and both guests were rescued by the resort’s ski patrol.

“It’s definitely not the first time in Western Canada and not the first time at Castle,” said spokesperson Cole Fawcett. “Usually the general public is not aware of an in-bounds avalanche, more to do with the fact that they are set off with explosives intentionally by our mountain safety team before the area is cleared for the public to enjoy.”

Fawcett said they are still trying to determine a cause to the slide. The area was closed for a few hours while they performed more avalanche mitigation to ensure the stability of the hill.

“We have received significant snowfall over the past 72 hours specifically so no doubt new snowfall is almost always a contributing factor to avalanches occurring,” he said.

EMS assessed both of the individuals involved and no one was injured.

The avalanche did not damage any of the resort’s infrastructure including the lift.

“More than anything we’re feeling very grateful and fortunate that our Mountain Safety Team was able to free these individuals and they are uninjured,” said Fawcett.

Castle is planning a full debrief with their team to determine a cause, they’re also talking to witnesses.

The area has since re-opened to the public.

 

Top Stories

Top Stories

Most Watched Today