20-Year-Old Backcountry Skier Killed From 600-Foot Fall, 2 Others Injured on Tuckerman Ravine, NH

A tragic accident on Mount Washington in New Hampshire claimed the life of a 20-year-old backcountry skier over the weekend. According to a Forest Service Press Release, Madison Saltsburg fell approximately 600 feet down Tuckerman Ravine on Saturday, succumbing to fatal injuries during the descent. The Forest Service said Saltsburg and her skiing companion encountered hard and icy snow surfaces due to cold temperatures and a lack of recent snowfall. There were also open crevasse holes on the mountain, the service said, and conditions were unforgiving.

Responding swiftly to the distress call, the Mount Washington Avalanche Center (MWAC) deployed its team to evacuate Saltsburg from the treacherous terrain. Additionally, the MWAC Snow Ranger team responded to two other skiers who had sustained non-life-threatening injuries from rocks and ice while navigating the firm and icy snow surface, as detailed in the official statement. Leading up to the accident, the National Weather Service had issued a winter storm warning for Mount Washington, predicting heavy snowfall of up to a foot combined with strong winds, which likely contributed to the hazardous conditions faced by the skiers.

In response to the incident, the U.S. Forest Service emphasized the inherent dangers of backcountry skiing in such environments. “Throughout the year, this very steep ski mountaineering terrain, and other areas around Mount Washington, are subject to ever-changing mountain hazards,” the statement read. These hazards commonly include avalanches, open crevasse holes, icy steep slopes, and falling rocks and ice.

Mount Washington stands as the highest peak in the Northeastern United States, attracting adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts year-round. However, incidents like this serve as stark reminders of the dangerous nature of backcountry skiing and mountaineering. As outdoor recreation continues to grow in popularity, individuals must prioritize safety, be aware of weather conditions, and equip themselves with the necessary skills and gear for navigating challenging terrain. Tragedies like the loss of Madison Saltsburg reiterate the importance of being prepared for venturing into high-consequence alpine environments.