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What are tree wells?
Wolf Creek just opened in Colorado which means we are entering the 2024-2025 ski season. As winter sports enthusiasts start exploring the mountains skiing and snowboarding, it’s important to be aware of the extreme and very real dangers of tree wells.
These hidden dangers are a common cause of serious injury and death for skiers and snowboarders.
Recently, in the 22-23 season, a 65-year-old man from Kentucky fell into a tree well and died while skiing with his son in Steamboat, CO.
Due to these dangers, we’ll explore what tree wells are, how they form, and provide some tips for avoiding them and increasing your odds of survival.
How do tree wells form?
Tree wells are formed by a combination of factors, including the shape of the tree and the type of snowpack.
They occur when low-hanging branches prevent snow from accumulating close to the tree trunk, creating a void or well around the base. Dense, wet snow is more likely to cause one to form, as it is heavier and can create more pressure around the base of the tree.
This area can be particularly dangerous for skiers and snowboarders, as they can fall into the well and become trapped.
Where are tree wells?
States with the highest concentration of tree wells generally include:
- Western Mountain States: Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho often have deep tree wells due to their mountainous terrain, dense forests, and heavy snowfall.
- Northeastern States: States like New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine can also have significant tree well hazards, especially in the higher elevations and forested areas.
- Pacific Northwest: Washington and Oregon, particularly in the Cascade and Olympic mountain ranges, can have deep tree wells, especially after heavy snowstorms.
It’s important to note that they can be found in any state with forested areas and snowfall. Even states in the Midwest or South can have these hazards, especially in mountainous or hilly regions.
Why are tree wells dangerous?
Falling into a one can be extremely dangerous, as it is difficult to escape once trapped. Skiers and snowboarders can become stuck in the deep snow, making it difficult to breathe and move. If not rescued quickly, the trapped individual can suffocate or suffer from hypothermia, which can be life-threatening.
If you fall in, often you go head first which drastically increases the danger. Since water is sound dampening, others often can’t hear calls for help.
Tips for avoiding tree wells
The best way to avoid tree wells is to stay away from them in the first place. Here are some tips to help while skiing or snowboarding:
- Stay on marked trails: They are more likely to form off-trail, so stick to designated ski runs to minimize your risk.
- Ski with a partner: Always ski with a partner and keep each other in sight. If one of you falls into a tree well, the other can provide assistance and call for help.
- Keep a safe distance from trees: Try to stay at least 5-10 feet away from trees, as this can reduce your risk of falling into a well.
- Backcountry saftey courses cover tree wells, avalanches, and veneral mountain saftey. There are a ton of options in Colorado, Colorado Adventure Guides offers some of these courses.
What to do if you fall into a tree well
Even if you take precautions, accidents can still happen. If you do fall into a tree well, here are some tips to help you survive:
- Stay calm: Falling into a tree well can be scary, but it’s important to stay calm and conserve your energy.
- Create an air pocket: Use your arms to create a space around your face to help you breathe.
- Signal for help: If possible, use your ski pole or whistle to signal for help.
- Keep moving: If you can move your arms and legs, try to wiggle your way out of the tree well. If you’re unable to move, conserve your energy and wait for help to arrive.
[VIDEO] Witness a Heart-Stopping Sidecountry Rescue Caught on GoPro
Francis Zuber’s day trip to Mt. Baker turned into a dramatic rescue when he happened upon a fellow skier, Ian Steger, buried in a tree well. Zuber, an experienced skier with avalanche safety training, immediately jumped into action to save Steger.
The rescue was made possible not only by Zuber’s quick thinking and physical abilities but also by the fact that both skiers were well-prepared with proper safety gear and had the necessary knowledge to navigate the backcountry.
Zuber’s decision to share the video of the rescue on social media has helped raise awareness about the dangers of tree wells and the importance of proper mountain safety training.
These wells are a hidden danger for skiers, snowboarders, and anyone exploring the mountains in the winter. By staying on marked trails, skiing with a partner, and keeping a safe distance from trees, you can reduce your risk of falling into one.
If you do fall into a tree well, it’s important to stay calm, create an air pocket, and signal for help. By following these tips, you can help increase your odds of survival and enjoy a safe and fun day on the slopes.
For more information and safety tips, you may want to check with local ski resorts or organizations like the National Ski Areas Association (NSAA).