On August 7, while guiding the Silverhorn route on Mt Athabasca, I witnessed
a significant natural rockfall event that would have had catastrophic
results for anyone on the North Glacier [Normal] route.
The rockfall originated at about 3350 m, at 9:45 am, in the rib of rocks
that borders the climber's right side of the Silverhorn. It was triggered by
a gust of wind. A small tower/pile of loose rocks was blown over and fell,
gathering other rocks in its path. These rocks, ranging from the size of pea
gravel to the size of footballs, showered across the ramp and would have hit
anyone climbing in a 25-30 meter section underneath the release. The
temperature at the time and elevation of the release was estimated at 1
degree C; the temperature at 3:00 am in the Icefields Centre parking lot was
7 degrees C. The wind was Moderate from the NW.
The added prospect of rockfall on the ramp gives something to consider when
going up or down the N Glacier route, especially on a warm or windy day.
Grant Meekins
Alpine Guide, Assistant Ski Guide
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These observations and opinions are those of the person who submitted them. The
ACMG and its members take no responsibility for errors, omissions, or lapses in
continuity. Conditions differ greatly over time and space due to the variable
nature of mountain weather and terrain. Application of this information
provides no guarantee of increased safety. Do not use the Mountain Conditions
Report as the sole factor in planning trips or making decisions in the field.
Please check out http://acmg.ca/mcr for more information.
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