As we move into spring, the nature of risk in the backcountry begins to change. Avalanches have not gone away, but during stable weather windows they are often no longer the primary cause of accidents. Instead, recent events in the Alps highlight a different and growing danger: falls in steep or unforgiving terrain.
In the Hautes-Alpes, two separate accidents recently resulted in fatalities. According to reports, both incidents involved back-country travellers who fell while moving through mountain terrain rather than being caught in avalanches. While details differ, the common factor is striking: loss of control on descent or in exposed sections, with consequences that proved immediately fatal. These kinds of accidents are typical of spring conditions, where snow stability may be good but surfaces can be hard, icy, and highly technical to ski or cross.
A third incident near Chamonix reinforces this pattern. A 21-year-old snow shoer, reported missing for three days, was eventually located by the PGHM in a wild but regularly frequented area between Le Brévent and the Pont de l’Arvelé. Investigators believe he fell during the night, lost consciousness, and was unable to move. He succumbed to severe hypothermia while being airlifted to hospital. The slope he was crossing is usually done on skis, which may have increased his exposure.
This reflects a classic spring transition in the mountains. Freeze–thaw cycles create firm snow in the morning that can feel secure underfoot but becomes extremely dangerous in the event of a slip. Slopes that would be manageable in softer winter powder become “no-fall zones” when refrozen. At the same time, longer days and more stable avalanche conditions encourage skiers to venture into bigger, steeper, and more committing terrain.
The result is a shift in the balance of risk. Avalanche danger may be moderate or even low, but the consequences of a fall increase significantly. In many cases, especially above rocks or in narrow couloirs, a slip cannot be stopped.
The key takeaway is not that avalanches are no longer a concern, they remain a fundamental hazard but that spring touring requires a broader perspective. Stability in the snowpack does not mean safety overall. Skiers should use ski crampons when climbing and fit them before they actually need them on safe terrain. They are not a panacea, if the terrain is at all "alpine" proper crampons fitted directly to ski boots should be carried, and used. In steep couloirs stonefall is also a danger.