Whistler Skier Uncovers The Hidden Dangers Of Tree Wells

Unlike cliffs, chutes, or steeps, tree well incidents can happen on low angle terrain and still end in severe situations unfolding, or potentially even fatalities. 

Several storms have hit Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia, over the past few weeks, exacerbating this exact issue. 

As seen in the diagram above, tree wells are dangerous because they are a hidden pocket of loose, deep snow, and if a skier falls in, they can become completely immobilized. 

Deep snow suffocation can also occur if a skier falls headfirst into the tree well. 

"If you get really close to these trees, you could fall right in there," the skier demonstrates, unpacking his probe. 

"I'm getting no resistance until about one meter down. That's telling you that this one is not all that bad, but some of these bigger trees..." 

But it's not always the big trees. The smaller trees pose hazards as well. The probe with the small tree went almost two meters, twice the depth of the big tree. You can absolutely get stuck in a tree well from a small tree. 

It's deceptive, but just as dangerous.

Besides some insane, FOMO-inducing powder skiing, the video shows how many hazards exist when venturing off-piste even in the resort. 

Tree wells have been deemed "underappreciated" risks and deserve skiers' time and attention when exploring terrain. Even terrain you know and have skied before can change as the snow levels increase. 

Go with a friend, pack your beacon, shovel, and probe, and have Ski Patrol's number on hand.