The Legacy of Tunnel Creek and Skiing's Complicated History Grappling With Death

In December 2012, POWDER magazine released the fourth issue of its forty-first volume, marking the first full season of publication for the eminent title since the devastating, paradigm-shifting avalanche at Tunnel Creek, Washington, an event that fundamentally changed skiing.

The accident just outside the boundary of Steven’s Pass ski area was sweeping in its scope. Sixteen individuals from disparate backgrounds—professional skiers, ski media luminaries, freeride comp pioneers, and local skiers—were involved.