March 6, Aspen -- Shortly after 1500 hours we were alerted to an avalanche accident in the backcountry near the Aspen Highlands Ski Area. Details are very few but at this time we know the man killed was a member of a group of 6 backcountry skiers in Five Fingers Bowl. One other skier was caught and appears to be okay.

The avalanche released above treeline and has been estimated at about 100 to 200 yards across and running "full length" which means up to or greater than 3000 vertical feet.

Five Fingers Bowl has become a popular out-of-area-ski tour adjacent to the Aspen Highlands ski area. Access is either from the top of Highlands Peak via a USFS backcountry access gate or to climb from the bottom starting at Conundrum Creek.

The CAIC Danger Rating

The backcountry avalanche danger posted (telephone hotlines) Sunday morning for the C mtns was "overall MODERATE near and above treeline. Below treeline LOW. Crested Butte zone: MODERATE overall."

We will post more details as they become available.