On April 3rd a group of ten riders left the Pole Canyon trail head south of Victor Idaho, their goal was to complete a long loop in the Snake River Range. At approximately 1430 hours, the lead rider (Rider 1) climbed a steep southeast facing slope in an attempt to reach a saddle around 9,500 feet. While Rider 1 was ascending he triggered an avalanche.
Read MoreThere are three main ways to set up an extended column test (ECT). This video shows one method using two avalanche probes and a long cord to isolate a 90 cm by 30 cm column…
Read MoreIn this video, Eric Knoff explains how to set up an Extended Column Test (ECT) using one avalanche probe. This method involves doing a shovel shear test on one end of the 90 cm column in order to open a space for the cord to saw behind the column.
Read MoreIn this video, Eric Knoff explains how to set up an Extended Column Test (ECT) without using avalanche probes. This method involves doing two shovel shear tests, one on each end of the 90 cm column.
Read MoreImpulse decision making may lead backcountry travelers into harm’s way. When riding in the backcountry, one bad decision can offset multiple good ones. Looking at avalanche accidents through this lens, a question arises: Were the decisions that contributed to an avalanche accident made with thought and measurable information, or were they made impulsively?
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