At approximately 2:41 pm on Tuesday, April 6th, 2021, the Pitkin County Regional Emergency Dispatch Center was called by Aspen Mountain Ski Patrol about two out-of-bounds skiers off Aspen Mountain, CO.
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The skiers had exited Aspen Mountain underneath a ski boundary rope at the bottom of Walsh’s run in an attempt to retrieve a lost ski. Walsh’s is a double black diamond run off the east side of Aspen Mountain. The skiers, unfamiliar with the area, were stuck in deep snow and unable to hike back up to the ski area boundary.
Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office was notified of the location of the stranded skiers. Deputies were able to make contact with the two skiers via telephone. After describing their location, Deputies were led to believe the two skiers were close to the valley floor, but after gathering further information, it was determined that the skiers were higher up on the mountain. Deputies requested Mountain Rescue Aspen to assist.
Mountain rescue Aspen deployed 8 members, 5 of whom ascended the mountain and successfully made contact with the skiers. Mountain Rescue Aspen Team helped the pair navigate the difficult terrain and successfully made it out.
The Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office, Aspen Mountain Ski Patrol, and Mountain Rescue Aspen would like to remind everyone of the importance of being aware of their surroundings. Ski area boundaries are clearly marked for skier safety, and everyone should be prepared for the unexpected when traveling in the backcountry.
The Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the Aspen Mountain Ski Patrol and Mountain Rescue Aspen for the quick response and assistance.
All members of the Mountain Rescue Aspen team were safely out of the field at 6:57 pm.
