Colorado Ski Slope Fatalities Decrease in 2024-25 Season

Colorado Records 13 Ski-Related Deaths in 2024-25 Season

The 2024-25 ski season in Colorado saw 13 fatalities across its 27 ski areas, marking a slight decrease from previous years. This figure includes eight skiers and five snowboarders, with incidents occurring primarily on intermediate and beginner runs. The victims ranged from 20 to 76 years old, with a majority being male. Causes of death varied, including trauma from falls, heart attacks, and snow suffocation.

Despite the reduction in fatalities, Colorado's death rate remains higher than the national average, at approximately one per million visits. This is nearly double the U.S. rate of 0.58 deaths per million skier visits, which reached a 10-year low in the 2023-24 season. Nationally, there were 35 deaths at U.S. ski areas that season, below the 10-year average of 42.

It's worth noting that Colorado ski areas are not required to publicly report fatalities, often providing minimal information beyond brief statements. The ski industry also doesn't classify medical events occurring on slopes, such as heart attacks, as ski area fatalities.

The ski industry continues to emphasise personal responsibility for safety. The Skier's Responsibility Code, updated in 2022, outlines expected behaviours on lift-served terrain. Recent safety initiatives have focused on lift safety, terrain park awareness, and the dangers of deep snow suffocation near trees.

Despite these efforts, at least ten of the fatalities in Colorado occurred on intermediate or beginner slopes, highlighting that less challenging terrain doesn't necessarily mean lower risk. Campaigns like 'Ride Another Day' continue to advocate for controlled speed and awareness on the slopes.

While ski-related fatalities are a serious concern, they remain relatively rare considering the millions of skier visits each year. The 2024-25 season also saw three backcountry avalanche fatalities in Colorado, compared to two in 2023-24 and 11 in 2022-23.