Beyond the Last Run: Why Recovery Efforts are Stalled in Alaska

The unforgiving reality of the backcountry was brought into sharp focus this past March when a massive avalanche in Alaska’s Chugach Mountains claimed the lives of three heli-skiing friends from out of state. More than six months later, the bodies of David Linder (39), Charles Eppard (39), and Jeremy Leif (38) remain trapped, with recovery efforts stalled due to the extreme and hazardous conditions of the terrain. The incident occurred on March 4, near the west fork of the Twentymile River, where the three friends were on a guided trip with Chugach Powder Guides.

Despite all three men reportedly deploying their avalanche airbags, the sheer force and scale of the half-mile-long avalanche, with debris piles between 40 and 100 feet deep, made immediate recovery impossible.

According to Alaska State Troopers, the avalanche funneled into a steep ravine, compacting the snow on top of a swift glacial river. This has created an impenetrable burial site, accessible only by helicopter. Even with professional rescue teams and advanced optical sensors, the depth and location of the burial site have prevented any progress.

"You have a very steep mountain ravine that this avalanche slid down into and compacted, high up in the mountains in an area that's only accessible by helicopter," said Austin McDaniel, a spokesperson for the Alaska State Troopers.

Since the tragedy, troopers have continued to fly over the site, hoping for a sign that would allow for a recovery attempt and bring some closure to the victims' families. The March avalanche, which measured up to 100 feet deep in places, was a stark reminder of the inherent risks of backcountry exploration, even for those with guides and proper safety equipment.

Related: Mammut Safety Series – Avalanche Safety in Alaska

For now, the mountains hold on to their secrets, a sobering testament to the immense power of nature.