Vermont Rescue Team Responds to Surge in Inexperienced Skiers

The Stowe Mountain Rescue team in Vermont has reported a significant increase in calls from inexperienced skiers, largely influenced by social media. Over the past few years, the organization has faced challenges in managing a rise in rescues, particularly as individuals venture into dangerous backcountry areas without proper skills or equipment.

In a notable incident on November 29, 2023, the team responded to a 911 call from two 19-year-olds who had become lost while skiing on Mount Mansfield. After driving from New York to explore the backcountry, the pair referenced a TikTok video that inspired their decision to ski outside the boundaries of the Stowe Mountain Resort. Stowe Mountain Rescue chief Jon Wehse explained, “These people are unprepared, they’re ill-equipped, they’re not in the right shape, and they have no spatial awareness of where they are on the mountain.”

The rescue team now averages around eight missions per season to assist lost skiers, a significant rise from approximately three missions five years ago. This figure does not include additional rescues conducted by the Mount Mansfield Ski Patrol within the resort’s boundaries. With Vermont experiencing record snowfall this winter, many ski resorts opened earlier than usual, further complicating the issue as more people take to the slopes.

Wehse pointed out that many intermediate skiers are attempting to navigate the backcountry without necessary experience. He noted that skiers often exit the lift at Stowe and blindly follow tracks left by others, inadvertently leading them beyond ski boundaries into areas where they cannot easily return.

In light of these alarming trends, Stowe Mountain Rescue issued a social media warning encouraging inexperienced skiers to remain on marked trails. “Keep in mind that those tracks you see in front of you might just be from Stowe Mountain Rescue’s last subject,” the post cautioned.

Wehse, a lifelong skier, appreciates the allure of fresh powder but emphasizes the importance of safety. He stated, “I love social media, I love watching the videos myself. However, what I would urge everyone to do is to learn how to do this carefully. The best place to start is in bounds.”

To proactively address the increasing influence of social media on skiing behavior, Stowe Mountain Rescue is exploring ways to educate skiers on responsible backcountry practices. The team plans to create informative social media content that guides skiers on how to safely enjoy the mountain while minimizing risks associated with off-piste skiing.

As social media continues to shape outdoor recreational activities, the Stowe Mountain Rescue team stands ready to respond to the growing challenges posed by inexperienced adventurers. Their commitment to safety and education is crucial in ensuring that individuals can enjoy the beauty of Vermont’s mountains without putting themselves at risk.