On January 7, 2025, Colorado lost an experienced backcountry skier and former member of the Ouray Mountain Rescue Team, Donald Moden Jr., 57, in a devastating avalanche. The incident occurred near Red Mountain Pass in the popular skiing area known as Bollywood, where Moden had ventured out alone.
Moden’s wife, growing concerned when he missed a planned check-in, immediately alerted the local sheriff’s office. She then drove to the trailhead and discovered the avalanche site, where she located her husband buried under three feet of snow. Despite wearing an avalanche rescue transceiver and carrying an avalanche airbag backpack, he had been unable to free himself in time.
The Colorado Avalanche Information Center reported that Moden’s airbag had not been deployed, and the deep snow made self-rescue impossible. Unfortunately, his tragic death marks the only avalanche fatality in Colorado so far this winter, serving as a stark reminder of the dangers that backcountry enthusiasts face in unpredictable terrain.
Authorities and avalanche experts continue to stress the importance of preparedness, including carrying proper safety equipment and understanding the risks before venturing into the backcountry. This loss is a solemn reminder for all skiers and snowboarders to stay informed and vigilant when exploring Colorado’s beautiful but perilous wilderness.
