Rare Avalanche Hits New York Ski Resort, Shutting Down Steepest Trail

Rare Avalanche Hits New York Ski Resort

A rare avalanche struck the Holiday Valley Resort in Ellicottville, New York, causing the closure of one of its steepest trails known as The Wall. According to reports, the avalanche occurred on Monday, December 15, with resort officials speculating that it happened either late on December 14 or early on December 15. Despite the trail being closed at the time, no injuries were reported.

Dash Hegeman, the marketing director of the Holiday Valley Resort, described The Wall as an expert-only trail with a pitch of approximately 30 to 35 degrees. He explained that the avalanche likely occurred due to a significant amount of man-made snow atop a natural base, a common practice in ski resorts. The resort’s ski patrol and mountain team regularly monitor the area for any signs of danger to ensure the safety of visitors.

As a result of the avalanche, The Wall trail remains closed as crews assess the conditions and work towards reopening later this month. However, other trails at the resort are currently open to visitors. Despite such incidents being more common in Western states like Utah and California, the resort experienced a similar small snowslide last year.

Holiday Valley Resort opened its doors on December 5 with ample snowfall, receiving a total of 62 inches of natural snow since then. Hegeman expressed gratitude for the successful winter season they have been enjoying so far, highlighting the dedication of the Mountain Ops team in managing the aftermath of the avalanche.

While avalanches can be a natural occurrence in mountainous regions, ski resorts like Holiday Valley Resort prioritize safety measures to protect their guests. The incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of winter sports and the importance of adhering to safety protocols while enjoying activities on the slopes.

As ski season continues, visitors to the Holiday Valley Resort are urged to stay informed about trail conditions and follow guidelines provided by the resort’s officials. With proper precautions and vigilant monitoring, both guests and staff can enjoy a safe and memorable skiing experience amidst the breathtaking winter scenery of New York’s snow-covered landscapes.

The Holiday Valley Resort’s swift response to the avalanche incident underscores their commitment to ensuring the well-being of all individuals frequenting the ski slopes. As nature’s forces shape the mountain terrain, ski resorts like Holiday Valley remain vigilant in their efforts to maintain a balance between adventure and safety for all winter sports enthusiasts.

In conclusion, while the rare avalanche may have temporarily disrupted operations at the Holiday Valley Resort, it also serves as a testament to the resilience and preparedness of ski resorts in handling unforeseen events. As the resort continues its efforts to assess and mitigate the impact of the avalanche, skiers and snowboarders can look forward to a safe and enjoyable winter season ahead.