High Risk in Big Sky: Montana’s Avalanche Fatalities

Avalanches may seem like a distant threat to most, but they are more of a reality for Montanans.

In the U.S., avalanches cause 25–30 fatalities each year and injure many more. Montana, with its high winter outdoor recreation numbers, ranks as one of the states with the highest avalanche deaths in the country.

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Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center annual report from 2023-2024 recorded 51 unintentionally triggered avalanches by skiers and snowboarders. Out of the 51 avalanches, 17 people were caught in them, 3 people were injured, 9 were partially buried, and 1 death. They also mentioned that this is just a fraction of the avalanches that actually occur in their area, and typically, the ones reported have some type of injury related to them.

Where Does Montana Rank for Avalanche Deaths?

Montana takes the No. 2 spot for avalanche fatalities over the past decade, with 33 deaths—six more than the national average.

No surprise, Colorado ranks first each year due to its higher population and, thus, more people looking for extreme winter activities. Between 2013 and 2014, a staggering 64 people lost their lives to the snow in Colorado.

Looking at the bigger picture, Statista ranks Montana fifth for total recorded avalanches in the U.S. from 1951 to 2023. When it comes to winter dangers, Big Sky Country isn’t just about deep powder—it comes with real risks.

How to Prepare and Reduce the Risk of Avalanche-Related Deaths

If you are planning to visit and participate in winter sports in areas where avalanches are likely, the best thing you can do is take a safety course. Several organizations offer educational resources, including the Montana Mountaineering Association, Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center, and Montana Alpine Guides.

They will teach you about different types of snowpacks, the best safety practices, essential equipment to carry, and everything else needed to prepare you for the mountain.

Credit: Statista, Montana.edu, nbcMontana