The Newb VS The Vet. Who causes more avalanches?

While backcountry gear continues to be snapped up from store shelves, we can definitely expect to see an increase in traffic as we head out to our favourite, delicious and powdery locations this winter. However, as many beginner backcountry travellers prepare to take to the skin tracks, there is concern throughout the industry as to the risks associated with inexperienced users in avalanche terrain, and what that might mean for response teams this season.

That being said, a recent study released by the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC) has revealed some results that may argue against the industry’s concern. Gathering data from the 2019-20 Colorado ski season specifically, the study concludes that it was experienced skiers — and not beginners — that were involved in most avalanche incidents. By categorizing and ranking the education and experience levels of those involved, results show mostly Intermediate to Advanced riders getting caught in avalanches, and suggest that their education did not reduce their avalanche exposure, it only found them travelling more in avalanche-prone conditions when beginners did not. 


Details of the study can be found here.