Deschutes SAR Rescues 29-Year-Old After Fall in Mt. Bachelor Backcountry
The first significant snowfall is a siren song for any dedicated skier or snowboarder. When the flakes start flying in late autumn, the stoke is undeniable. Mt. Bachelor recently saw just enough fresh snow to tempt riders onto the mountain’s upper reaches. Consequently, the area’s accessible backcountry terrain, like the iconic Cinder Cone, becomes a prime target.
However, these early-season turns carry hidden, heavy risks. While Mt. Bachelor's lifts were not spinning for the season, a 29-year-old snowboarder recently learned that lesson the hard way.
A Painful Reminder of Pre-Season Risk
On Sunday afternoon, the snowboarder, a recent arrival to Central Oregon, was riding the steep Cinder Cone. Unfortunately, the patchy conditions proved unforgiving. He fell violently and struck a rock hidden just beneath the thin, early snowpack. The impact was severe. Reports indicate the rider suffered immediate pain to his hip and ribs.
The Rescue: Steep Terrain and Tight Access
The severity of the man’s injuries, combined with the difficult location, immediately triggered a major response. Mt. Bachelor Ski Patrol arrived on the scene. But due to the steep, uncontrolled terrain and limited vehicle access, they quickly requested backup from the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue (SAR) team.
Fifteen SAR volunteers responded to the call. They hiked up the mountain's steep side to reach the injured snowboarder. The team’s first priority was to stabilize the rider and manage the pain. Following stabilization, the delicate process of transporting him began. SAR crews carefully moved the injured man down to a snowcat access road. Mt. Bachelor staff then utilized a snowcat to transport the rider to the West Village parking area. Finally, Bend Fire & Rescue took over and transported the man to St. Charles Medical Center-Bend for necessary treatment. The entire operation lasted several hours, underscoring the complexity and dedication required for mountain rescues.
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Respect the Mountain: Safety Takeaway
The coordinated effort by Deschutes SAR, Mt. Bachelor Ski Patrol, and Bend Fire & Rescue was textbook. Their teamwork ensured the injured snowboarder made it off the mountain safely.
This incident showcases the crucial difference between patrolled and unpatrolled terrain. When a resort is closed for the season, the mountain is entirely on its own terms. Riders venturing out must be fully self-sufficient, prepared for longer rescue times, and aware that early-season snow often hides hazards like logs, stumps, and rocks. What may appear to be a smooth run can quickly turn dangerous.
The Cinder Cone, known for its steep pitch and challenging natural terrain, demands respect even in midwinter—and even more so in pre-season conditions. Exercise absolute caution, ride within your limits, and stay aware of changing snowpack.
Stay safe out there, and here’s to a deep winter ahead.
