Burlington, Vermont – The University of Vermont student who tragically lost her life in a backcountry skiing accident on New Hampshire’s Mount Washington over the weekend has been identified as Madison Saltsburg, a 20-year-old junior from Pennsylvania. University officials expressed their deep sorrow and offered support to Saltsburg’s family and friends during this difficult time.
Saltsburg fell approximately 600 vertical feet in treacherous conditions on Saturday, along with two other skiers who also suffered injuries from the icy terrain. The group was navigating through Tuckerman Ravine, a popular area for backcountry skiing, when the accident occurred. Despite the challenging weather conditions, rescue efforts continued throughout the night and into Sunday morning.
Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast, is notorious for its unpredictable weather patterns and has a history of requiring rescue missions for stranded hikers and skiers. Just the night before this incident, New Hampshire Fish and Game rescued a 23-year-old hiker from Kentucky who had veered off the trail and into Ammonoosuc Ravine, sustaining injuries and becoming hypothermic.
In a separate rescue earlier in February, a hiker shared his harrowing 11-hour ordeal in the Ammonoosuc Ravine, emphasizing the importance of proper preparation and decision-making while venturing into the wilderness. These incidents serve as stark reminders of the dangers inherent in backcountry activities, especially in unforgiving terrains like Mount Washington.
As the community mourns the loss of Madison Saltsburg, authorities continue to stress the importance of safety precautions and preparedness for outdoor adventures in challenging environments. The University of Vermont is expected to release a statement providing resources for those affected by this tragedy, underscoring the need for vigilance and responsibility in outdoor pursuits.