Two Guests Involved in Inbounds Cornice Fall at Whistler Blackcomb

Two guests narrowly avoided injury during an inbounds cornice fall at Whistler Blackcomb on February 2. The event occurred in the Saudan Couloir, an experts-only run on Blackcomb Mountain known for its steep pitch and exposed alpine terrain.

According to reports, one guest triggered a cornice fall from above, and the falling cornice struck a skier below. Neither guest was injured, and the area was secured by mountain operations staff following the incident.

Warming conditions are a primary driver of cornice failures. As temperatures rise—particularly during sudden warming spells—the structural integrity of snow cornices weakens, increasing the likelihood of collapse. These failures can occur naturally or be triggered by skiers traveling above on ridgelines.

While Whistler Blackcomb continues daily avalanche mitigation efforts, the February 2 incident reinforces a broader message for skiers and riders across the province: with current warming across British Columbia, cornice failure remains a significant concern. Whether skiing in advanced inbounds terrain or travelling in the backcountry, snowpack conditions can remain unpredictable, and conservative decision-making remains essential.