Rocky Mountain National Park, CO – On January 11, 2026, two skiers were caught in a Wind Slab avalanche in Haiyaha Couloir after a group of three triggered the slide while ski cutting the upper chute.

The avalanche fractured the untouched lower slope above a skier, producing an 8–14 inch crown. The skier was carried, briefly buried, and dislocated his shoulder while grabbing a tree to stop his fall. Another member of the group was also caught in the slide.

Despite the injuries, the group managed to address the situation and safely exit the area. Partners quickly assisted, demonstrating preparedness and coordination in a dangerous environment.

The Colorado Avalanche Information Center reports that with the new snow and warming temperatures, human-triggered avalanches are increasing. Areas with deeper snowpack, such as the Park Range, Elk, and West Elk Mountains, are particularly prone to large avalanches, though smaller slides in other regions can still be dangerous in consequential terrain.

The group shared their experience and lessons learned in a field report, emphasizing the importance of studying incidents to prevent future accidents. “We all make mistakes,” the report notes, highlighting the need for awareness and caution when traveling in avalanche-prone areas.

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