The serene backcountry of Wyoming’s Togwotee Pass transformed into a scene of tragedy on Saturday when a group of four backcountry skiers triggered a massive avalanche, claiming the life of one and injuring another. The incident underscores the inherent risks of backcountry skiing, especially during periods of challenging weather conditions and unstable snowpack. The skiers were ascending the mountain using a skin track, a common practice in backcountry skiing where adhesive “skins” are attached to the bottom of skis to allow uphill travel, when the avalanche struck shortly before noon. The powerful slide completely engulfed Kenneth Goff, a 36-year-old resident of Lander, Wyoming, while partially burying another member of the group.
The remote location of the avalanche and adverse weather conditions significantly hampered rescue efforts. Teton County Search and Rescue (TCSAR) initially attempted to reach the scene via helicopter and snowmobile, but the prevailing weather, likely a combination of strong winds, poor visibility, and heavy snowfall, made these approaches impossible. This necessitated a more arduous and time-consuming alternative: a team of rescue skiers had to undertake a strenuous trek to the avalanche site, a journey that took nearly four hours from the time the emergency alert was received. This delay highlights the critical role weather plays in backcountry rescue operations and emphasizes the importance of preparedness and self-sufficiency for those venturing into the wilderness.
Upon reaching the scene, the rescuers focused on retrieving the buried skiers. The injured skier was carefully extricated and transported down the mountain in a litter, a type of rescue stretcher. Upon reaching the base, the injured skier was immediately transferred to an ambulance provided by Grand Teton National Park, located approximately 20 miles from the avalanche site. Tragically, Kenneth Goff was recovered deceased, becoming the fifth avalanche fatality in the region this winter season. His body was also transported down the mountain using a sked, a specialized device designed for backcountry rescue and evacuation.
The recovery operation extended into the evening, highlighting the demanding nature of backcountry rescues, particularly when hampered by unfavorable weather and remote locations. The extended response time underscores the importance of thorough planning and preparation for backcountry adventurers. In such situations, individuals should be equipped with the necessary safety gear, including avalanche beacons, shovels, and probes, and possess the knowledge and skills to effectively use them. Furthermore, staying informed about current avalanche forecasts and snowpack conditions is crucial for mitigating risks.
In the aftermath of the tragedy, TCSAR emphasized the importance of considering the potential impact of adverse weather on rescue operations when planning backcountry excursions. The inability to utilize a helicopter significantly lengthened the response time in this incident, adding another layer of complexity to an already challenging situation. This highlights the need for backcountry skiers to be prepared for self-rescue and to have contingency plans in place should an accident occur and immediate external assistance be unavailable. The organization extended their condolences to the family and friends of Kenneth Goff, acknowledging the devastating impact of this tragic event.
The avalanche occurred during a period of severe winter weather that had been impacting much of the country, including Wyoming. A series of snowstorms in recent weeks had contributed to a potentially unstable snowpack, increasing the risk of avalanches. The ongoing winter storm on Saturday further exacerbated conditions and likely played a role in the tragic incident. This emphasizes the crucial link between weather patterns, snowpack conditions, and avalanche risk. Backcountry skiers and other winter recreationists are urged to continually monitor weather forecasts, avalanche advisories, and snowpack reports before venturing into the backcountry. This proactive approach can significantly reduce the risk of encountering hazardous conditions and potentially life-threatening situations.
