| Trigger | Skier | Remote Trigger | 0 |
| Avalanche Type | Soft Slab | Aspect | North Northwest |
| Elevation | 2500ft | Slope Angle | 35deg |
| Crown Depth | 24in | Width | 700ft |
| Vertical Run | 900ft |
Avalanche: Other Regions
Location: Northwest slope off of Madson Mountain just above Crescent Lake
Below is a preliminary report of the avalanche fatality that occurred on Saturday March 9th, 2019 above Crescent Lake just east of the Crescent Saddle Cabin. CNFAIC staff visited the site on Tuesday March 12th. The final report will be completed as soon as possible and posted on our accidents page under the resources tab. We want to thank the members of the party involved for sharing this information. Our deepest condolences to family, friends and all affected by this accident.
Avalanche Details
At 3:25 pm on March 9th, 2019 two skiers and a snowboarder on a multi day cabin trip were involved in an avalanche on a treed slope just east of the Crescent Saddle Cabin. One skier was caught, carried and buried. The skier was buried 6 ft deep and recovered unresponsive after ~10 minutes. CPR was performed for over 30 minutes unsuccessfully. One group member left the scene to return toward the trailhead to call for help via cell phone. U.S. Forest Service Law Enforcement officers, Alaska State Troopers and Moose Pass Emergency Services were able to respond to the accident site with snowmachines later that evening and transport the deceased to the Carter Lake trailhead, MP 34 of the Seward Highway.
Crescent Avalanche. Crown was completely blown in. Estimated from the group involved's description. Crown was in the peppered trees above the treeline and avalanche ran in three channels of debris.
Looking up the debris from just below burial spot.
Shoulder of Madson mountain above Crescent Lake with avalanche in view.