Rider swept off large cliff in Snoqualmie Pass

[themutt]

On 2/24/23 a rider skinning on a bench above some serious exposure on the N side of Chair Peak in Snoqualmie Pass triggered an avalanche and was swept over a cliff.

Depenging on exact start point, the vertical fall off the cliff itself was likely between 100-200ft and the tumble in total was probably upwards of 600 vertical feet. Somehow, the rider survived.

Massive kudos to other parties in the zone who helped in the rescue. Another reminder about the consequences of being caught and carried - even in a small slide.

Report Links:
https://nwac.us/public-obs/20263/
https://nwac.us/avalanches/20230224_...cache-couloir/

Hoist Rescue: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dvwmZFwlrfY

Preliminary Report: A solo backcountry tourer triggered an avalanche while skinning across an unsupported bench above the Cache Couloir on the north side of Chair Peak. He was caught by the slide and carried over a large cliff band. He came to rest in the bottom of the couloir just above Snow Lake. Nearby parties heard his yells, responded to the accident, and provided first aid care. King County Sheriff’s Office/ Medic One Helicopter evacuated the injured party from the scene.

[2FUNKY]

Jfhc that dude is so lucky.


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[shroom]

shit meet pants

[kamtron]

I've toured up that shelf a couple times, always in very stable conditions. It's an interesting way to get to the N slope of Chair. It's also sketchy being above that cliff. Sorry to hear this happened, very scary spot to get avalanched.

[kamtron]

That photo offers a wild perspective on the area.

[whipski]

Candide Thovex would have landed it