| OCR Text |
Show COMMENTS The moraine which lies across the Gordon Gulch drainage nearly always stops the several avalanches which run in this path each year. However, when a large climax avalanche releases, even a 100 foot barrier is of little use. As more and more people live, work, and play in the mountains in the winter, avalanches will become an increasing hazard. The people using mountainous areas in the winter must be made aware of this hazard. Known avalanche paths must be delineated on maps or photos to prevent unnecessary construction of roads and buildings in avalanche paths. To the trained eye, it was obvious these houses were built at the toe of an avalanche path. Those who have not had such training should be cautious of any snowy slopes over 20° - whether they are skiing or building a cabin at its foot. No. 62- 4 SWIFT CREEK. WYOMING 10 February 1962 WEATHER FACTORS Three days prior to the 10th, the weather had been warm and rainy. The snow- pack was relatively deep. This created a condition which was ideal for damp or wet snow si ides. ACCIDENT SUMMARY Located about two miles east of Afton, Wyoming, Swift Creek Canyon appeared to have an excellent potential for development into a ski area. Prior to February, 1962, the area had been inspected by Forest Service avalanche experts, who refused to recommend the site for future development because of its extreme avalanche hazards. Despite these recommendations, several local people were still convinced that the area could be used for skiing. Consequently, on Saturday afternoon, 10 February, Dr. M. S., a local dentist and an avid skier, and a companion, B. G., went into Swift Creek on snow-shoes to appraise the snow and slide conditions. They had purposely chosen a day when the slide potential was high. On entering the canyon, the two men located the power company pipeline and followed it to the mouth of Sheep Canyon. From there they went by snowshoes two miles up Sheep Canyon. After checking conditions the two men started back. When they got to the pipeline, they decided to walk it back down and carry their snowshoes and ski poles. At this point they had already passed through the most hazardous areas in the canyon. About a mile and a 76 |
