TomD

I remember when I learned that those really cool clear "skiing slopes" in the mountains were actually avolanche slopes or couloirs. Who knew? I am constantly amazed at the things that I survived without even knowing that I had been in that much danger.

Avolanches scare me real bad, as do snow bridges over streams and snow cornices. I think maybe anyone who plans to go out in the mountains off trail in the winter who isn't scared of those things should take the time to learn what an avolanche slope is - like almost anyplace steep enough to slide down, and learn some deeper respect before the "go for it" atitudes gets you killed.

This was a sad case and our condolences to his family.
BUT
Why was he skiing in those conditions? Was it a calculated risk or stupidity? And note - he died of blunt force trauma from being wrapped around a tree.

Jim