Colorado has experienced a record number of avalanches in the past week, with over 420 avalanches recorded, posing ongoing dangers to residents and visitors. The Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC) has issued warnings and urged caution for those venturing into the backcountry.

One of the most significant incidents occurred near Berthoud Pass, where a skier-triggered avalanche resulted in a fatality. The avalanche broke at the ground across multiple terrain features. Several agencies, including the Grand County Sheriff’s Office and the Colorado Rapid Avalanche Deployment Team, responded to the incident.

In another incident on Gravel Mountain, a snowmobile operator triggered an avalanche that caught three or four people. Fortunately, all individuals involved were able to self-rescue or were assisted by nearby people and were uninjured. The CAIC has emphasized the importance of carrying essential equipment and checking daily avalanche forecasts before heading into the backcountry.

The recent spate of avalanches has highlighted the dangers of winter recreation in Colorado’s mountainous regions. The CAIC continues to monitor conditions and provide updates to ensure the safety of residents and visitors.

Colorado, avalanches, Berthoud Pass, Gravel Mountain, Colorado Avalanche Information Center, CAIC, backcountry, winter recreation, safety, Grand County Sheriff’s Office,

©️ The Rocky Mountain Dispatch LLC. 2025