Tragic Skiing Accident on Mount Washington Claims Pennsylvania Skier’s Life
Published in on March 11, 2024
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In a tragic incident in New Hampshire, a young Pennsylvanian skier lost her life while descending the slopes of Mount Washington’s Tuckerman Ravine, known for its advanced skiing terrain. The victim, identified as 20-year-old Madison Saltsburg, encountered a fatal fall of approximately 600 feet on Saturday afternoon. Saltsburg was a junior at the University of Vermont and was skiing with friends amidst notably icy conditions due to the lack of fresh snow and cold temperatures.
The U.S. Forest Service reported the events surrounding the accident, noting that alongside Saltsburg’s fatal plunge, two other individuals suffered severe injuries from separate incidents during the day. The treacherous conditions on the mountain, recognized for its volatility and unforgiving weather, contributed to these accidents. On the same mountain, a recent rescue involved saving a hypothermic hiker who had strayed from the trail.
Despite the allure of Tuckerman Ravine for adventurous skiers, particularly in spring with its softer snow, the unexpected icy surfaces and open crevasses represented alarming hazards at the time. Mount Washington stands at 6,288 feet and has been the scene for numerous search and rescue operations in light of its penchant for sudden weather shifts.
The series of unfortunate events on Mount Washington that day called for the mobilization of extensive search and rescue operations.
Source: Hoodline