Accident: Ephraim Canyon

Observation Date
Monday, February 25, 2013
Avalanche Date
Monday, February 25, 2013
Region
Skyline » Ephraim Canyon
Location Name or Route
Ephraim Canyon
Elevation
10,300'
Aspect
Northwest
Slope Angle
38°
Trigger
Snowmobiler
Avalanche Type
Hard Slab
Avalanche Problem
Persistent Weak Layer
Weak Layer
Depth Hoar
Depth
3.5'
Width
150'
Vertical
400'
Caught
1
Carried
1
Buried - Partly
1
Accident and Rescue Summary

A group of experienced local snowmobilers were riding in Ephraim Canyon when the fourth rider on the hill started getting stuck, grabbed some throttle as he turned away from the slope, triggering the avalanche above him. He was carried about 200' down slope with only his hand sticking out of the snow. The group was prepared for their own self rescue and quickly excavated their buried partner. The sled was completely buried and took roughly an hour to dig out. The rider came out unscathed... the sled was not as lucky.

Video