Massive avalanche on North Sister

A massive avalanche left a "crack" across the snowfield on North Sister. Rain and warming temperatures have left the slopes unstable and avalanche danger is very high in the Sisters backcountry.

If you're planning on hiking or riding in that vicinity, it would probably be a good idea to avoid that immediate area.

Back in May, 2005, three hikers enjoying themselves in that same vicinity got a free ride back to town in an AirLink helicopter after triggering an avalanche on the unstable slopes of Thayer Glacier. Two of the hikers escaped injury, but a third member of the group was transported to St. Charles Medical Center by helicopter with minor injuries.

Backcountry explorers are urged to use good judgment and stay safe!