2 skiers dead after separate avalanches in Alberta. Is skiing a dangerous sport? How to stay safe when hitting the slopes

The unrelated incidents took place after the backcountry skiers triggered avalanches, one near Lake Louise and another in Kananaskis Country.

Chris Stoodley
·Lifestyle and News Editor
Updated ·7 min read

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified medical professional before engaging in any physical activity, or making any changes to your diet, medication or lifestyle.

Ski season has started in Alberta as two resorts in the Canadian Rockies, west of Calgary, opened this morning. Skiers at the Lake Louise ski resort in Lake Louise, Alta., are shown on Saturday, Nov. 24, 2018. Authorities warn of avalanches after two recent deaths. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh
Two skiers died in Alberta on Friday afternoon after separate avalanches near Lake Louise and Kananaskis Country. (The Canadian Press/Jeff McIntosh)

Two skiers in Alberta have died following separate avalanches in the province's backcountry, according to authorities. The Friday afternoon incidents occurred near Lake Louise northwest of Banff, as well as in Kananaskis Country west of Calgary, Alberta Health Services EMS said.

A report on Avalanche Canada's website indicated the first incident took place when two skiers in the "out of bounds" Lake Louise ski area were making their way back. The first skier triggered an avalanche around 3 p.m., and he was carried around 50 metres and buried under roughly 150 to 200 centimetres of snow.

The second skier pulled their companion out of the snow and performed first aid until he was transferred to emergency medical services. However, he was later declared dead.

Later that afternoon, the second death occurred. That incident took place near the Black Prince day use area in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park, more than one-and-a-half hours west of downtown Calgary. In that case, the skier was reportedly carried down the slope for 50 to 80 metres; three other skiers in the group found the victim and called for help.

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Spring might be right around the corner, but that doesn't mean snow has stopped falling. Mountain safety officials in Western Canada have put out warnings for this weekend, urging people to take caution due to elevated avalanche risks in various national parks. Recent snowfall, buried weak layers and shifting weather patterns amid the new season has increased the risk, according to Avalanche Canada.

But does that mean getting out onto the slopes is dangerous right now? Continue reading to learn more about how to stay safe while skiing, and what you should do if you find yourself in danger.

Once winter hits, it's common to take part in recreational activities like ice skating, sledding and snowshoeing. Hitting the slopes with a pair of skis or a snowboard is also one of the most popular sports when it gets cold and snowy outside. However, it's important to recognize the dangers of alpine activities.

According to the Canadian Hospitals Injury Reporting and Prevention Program, there were 5,434 alpine skiing-related injuries reported in its database between Oct. 1, 2016 and Jan. 11, 2024. Of those injuries, the average age of the patient was just below 17. However, 3,461 of those patients were between ages five and 14.

Fractures were the main injury sustained by these patients, with 2,139 reported cases, or 39.4 per cent. Fourteen per cent of those injuries were brain trauma, equating to 759 incident. Of those, 546 were concussions, 191 were minor head injuries and 22 were intracranial injuries.

A rescue helicopter is shown at Lake Louise Ski Resort after an avalanche was triggered outside of the resort area in this Friday, March 14, 2025 handout photo. Two skiers are dead after separate avalanches in the Alberta backcountry. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO, RCMP *MANDATORY CREDIT*
A rescue helicopter is shown at Lake Louise Ski Resort after an avalanche was triggered outside of the resort area in this Friday, March 14, 2025 handout photo. Two skiers died after separate avalanches in the Alberta backcountry. (The Canadian Press/HO, RCMP)

Deaths related to these ski injuries are typically rare, but that doesn't mean fatalities don't happen. In January, a 67-year-old man from Ontario died after falling into a snow well at Fernie Alpine Resort in B.C. Moreover, the deaths of a 15-year-old boy and 70-year-old man in January 2024 in Quebec within one week were a reminder of the risks associated with skiing.

Backcountry skiing is also a popular sport amongst people who might enjoy a thrilling ride and want to venture outside of the resort. However, it's worth noting backcountry skiing is an inherently dangerous activity that requires experience and knowledge.

Avalanches might not be the first thing on your mind when heading out to go skiing, but knowing what to do if you're trapped in a dangerous scenario is key to travelling in winter environments. Avalanche Canada offers an online tutorial called Avy Savvy that offers more resources on avalanches, backcountry travelling and rescuing companions.

To avoid avalanches, Backcountry Skiing Canada recommended four things when it comes to slopes: Stay away from any slopes that are:

  • Greater than 30 degrees: Most avalanches happen on slopes between 30 and 45 degrees.

  • Above terrain traps: Avoid features like steep-sided depressions, trees, rocks and cliffs.

  • Obvious avalanche paths: Especially paths that have snowpack instability, which might be present if there are signs like cracks shooting out from under your weight and whumpf sounds.

  • Wind loaded: Wind slabs caused by snow pile-up from wind transport can increase the risk of avalanches.

Avalanches are more likely if there are three conditions, according to Avalanche Canada. Those include heavy snowfall, high-impact winds and warmer temperatures.

A skier skis down a backcountry trail on Rattlesnake Mountain in the U.S.
There are four things to avoid when it comes to staying away from avalanches: Keep your distance from slopes that are greater than 30 degrees, above terrain traps, within obvious avalanche paths and those that are wind loaded. (Photo via Getty Images)

There won't be any time to call for help if your group is involved in an avalanche. Fatality statistics in Canada indicate there's an 80 per cent chance you'll recover a buried victim alive within 10 minutes. After that time frame, survival rates steeply decline. Companion rescue will be of utmost importance, since it'll likely be too late by the time outside help arrives.

If your group is in this scenario, you'll first want to choose a leader as the rescue situation will likely be stressful. Then, ensure everyone is safe and take a headcount of who is missing. While searching, it's best that another person keeps an eye on potential hazards that may impact the site.

According to Avalanche Canada, there is no surefire way to escape an avalanche and sometimes it will be impossible. However, there are ways you can increase your survival chances. These techniques differ depending on where you are located during the incident.

  • If you're near the top, it's best to yell "avalanche" to warn others. You can also try to self-arrest by digging your poles or hands into the snow.

  • If you're skiing, try sticking to the side and moving as fast as possible. Otherwise, try latching onto a tree or removing your equipment if you're caught in the flow.

  • If you're near the bottom, fight to stay afloat by "swimming" towards the surface. As the flow slows down, create an airspace by clearing snow in front of your mouth if you're trapped.

A young boy sits in the snow on a hill while skiing.
You want to make sure you're wearing the appropriate gear while going skiing. That includes warm clothing, goggles and a helmet. (Photo via Getty Images)

Even before you head out for the hill, there are factors you should know to ensure you're fully prepared when it comes to skiing. For one it's best to plan for the weather, including dressing appropriately with warm clothing and proper closed-toe footwear. On top of knowing the conditions, make sure you know which paths you can take on the hill and which dangers you may encounter.

According to the Canadian Ski Council, it's best to be aware of any area-specific rules of conduct when it comes to hitting the slopes. Additionally, it's a good idea to take note of any warning signs and maintain a safe distance from other people on the hill.

When planning your next ski trip, use these tips to ensure you're staying as safe as you can when you're on the slopes:

  • Wear a helmet at all times, as well as other protective equipment like goggles and wristguards

  • Avoid skiing alone and plan to make sure someone knows where you've gone plus when you'll return

  • Know your limit when skiing, and make sure you're refuelling and rehydrating throughout the day

  • Be mindful of where you stop on a hill, and ensure you move over to the side of a run while resting

If you're backcountry skiing, it's important to take extra precautions. On top of those mentioned above, you should also consider telling someone where you're going and planning on coming back; using equipment designed for backcountry use; bringing a map and compass and packing a first aid kit.

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