Three Heli-skiers Killed in Avalanche Near Kaslo

A tragic avalanche near Kaslo, British Columbia, claimed the lives of three heli-skiers on Monday afternoon, marking one of the most serious backcountry incidents of the season.

According to a release from the RCMP, the avalanche occurred around 1:00 p.m. PT in the Clute Creek watershed, located southeast of the village of Kaslo, on the east side of Kootenay Lake. The group was heli-skiing with Stellar Heliskiing, a well-known operator in the region.

The RCMP said that two groups of skiers had just completed a run in a high alpine bowl and were waiting in a staging area below the treeline when the avalanche occurred. A transport helicopter, approaching to collect the groups, observed the slide and sounded a siren to alert those below.

One group managed to escape, but a second group of four skiers was caught in the slide, which swept them through the trees.

Three people were killed, including a 44-year-old man from Whistler, a 45-year-old man from Idaho, and their 53-year-old guide, a resident of Kaslo.

A fourth individual, a 40-year-old man from Nelson, was critically injured and is currently receiving medical care. His condition has not been publicly updated.

The BC Coroners Service has launched an investigation into the incident. Avalanche forecasters and officials are also likely to review the conditions leading up to the event.

Stellar Heliskiing, which has operated out of Kaslo for over a decade, has not yet released a public statement.

This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the risks associated with backcountry travel, even when guided by seasoned professionals and supported by safety protocols. The terrain in the Kootenay region, while offering world-class skiing, can also be volatile — particularly during late-season snowpack transitions.

PowderCanada extends its condolences to the families, friends, and community members affected by this tragic loss.

Further updates will be posted as more information becomes available.