The Utah Department of Transportation utilizes explosives and artillery to manage avalanche risks that threaten public roadways in the Cottonwood Canyons. In a recent tragic event, a 29-year-old skier, Nicholas Vizzini, died after triggering an avalanche on Denali, North America’s tallest peak. This incident occurred during the 2025 climbing season on June 10, when Vizzini and his snowboarding partner were descending the West Buttress route, a popular climbing route. The avalanche occurred at an elevation of approximately 16,600 feet, carrying Vizzini down over 1,500 feet.
After the avalanche, two mountaineering rangers quickly responded, locating Vizzini’s partner on the surface of the debris. They used a beacon search to find Vizzini, who was buried. Although the rangers attempted CPR, efforts were halted after 40 minutes due to traumatic injuries and lack of pulse. Vizzini’s body was recovered and sent to the medical examiner’s office, while his partner sustained minor injuries.
This was the second fatal avalanche incident on Denali this climbing season, with a previous climber’s death reported due to a 3,000-foot fall. Historical data from the National Park Service indicates a total of 13 avalanche-related fatalities and over 130 deaths on Denali since the park’s inception. In the U.S., avalanche-related deaths average about 25 to 30 annually, predominantly involving backcountry skiers and snowboarders. Recent incidents across the nation underline the significant risks associated with snow sports, emphasizing the critical need for awareness and safety measures in avalanche-prone areas.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image of the presented article.
