Skier Escapes Uninjured from Size 2 Avalanche in Banff

A skier escaped uninjured after triggering a size 2 avalanche on a backcountry slope outside the Lake Louise Ski Area in Banff National Park, Alberta, on January 20, 2026.

Parks Canada Visitor Safety responded to the incident on Vortex, a west-facing run at an elevation of about 2,450 meters. Video footage shared by the agency captured the skier descending with long, controlled turns when a large slab of snow suddenly released, enveloping them in a rush of powder the size of a football field. The avalanche carried the skier to the bottom of the slope, burying them up to the waist and knocking off both skis. Despite the intensity of the slide, which included exposed rocks along the path, the skier sustained no other injuries and was able to self-rescue.

The group involved consisted of experienced backcountry skiers who followed standard safety protocols. They descended one at a time, carried essential equipment such as transceivers, probes and shovels, and had designated a safe regroup point at the base of the slope. Parks Canada noted that these measures likely contributed to the positive outcome, as the other members quickly located and assisted their companion.