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AvalancheOutcome: FatalAvalanche

Avalanche — Mount Washington, Jan 5, 1996

·Mount Washington

19-year-old from Bécancour, QC · party of 4

Alexandre Cassan, 19, was one of four hikers who lost the (recently closed) Old Lion Head Winter Route into avalanche terrain on January 5, 1996, after passing closure and warning signs. He was killed by the resulting slide.

What we can learn

Trail closures on Mount Washington are posted because the recent terrain has become avalanche-prone. Cassan's party walked past explicit warning signage and entered the avalanche path.

Before you head out: check the forecast, carry the Ten Essentials, leave your plans with someone, and be willing to turn back. See current conditions →

Other recorded incidents on Mount Washington

Part of the WMNF Hiker Incident Database. Every entry cites a primary or near-primary source; details are refined as the record is reviewed.