In the Path of an Avalanche

Peter Harmathy teaches fine arts in Victoria.

Each year, avalanches claim the lives of more than 40 North
Americans—a statistic that is bound to rise with the growing
popularity of backcountry recreation. In the Path of an Avalanche is a
well-written and moving account of the catastrophic avalanche that
claimed six lives in Kokanee Glacier Park, British Columbia, on January
2, 1998. This real-life story follows the lives of six recreational
skiers, who, despite their thorough experience, expert weather/snow
reports, and cautious attitudes, became victims of the worst Canadian
avalanche fatality in the last 40 years. The avalanche was followed by a
massive rescue effort and attempts to determine its causes.

Supplemented with documentation on avalanche formation and warnings,
this book is essential reading for anyone intending to ski, snowboard,
hike, or snowmobile in the winter backcountry.