Bonus Episode- Lessons from the Slopes- An Avalanche Experience - Rob and Mark

Backcountry skiers Rob Fry and Mark Johnston recount a harrowing avalanche incident in the Selkirks of Canada during a self-guided hut trip. Despite having extensive experience and a conservative approach, the group encountered a slide triggered by a tactical error in route selection. Fry, who was caught in the avalanche, emphasizes how his compromised mental state—stemming from a personal life crisis—diminished his focus on safety and risk assessment. The conversation highlights the critical importance of maintaining a "hair trigger" for turning back, regardless of perceived safety or group consensus. While the group successfully utilized rescue training and equipment to ensure a survivable outcome, the incident serves as a stark reminder that even highly trained individuals are fallible and must prioritize cautious decision-making to avoid life-threatening situations in high-alpine terrain.