All incidents
Body recoveryOutcome: FatalFall

Body recovery — Mount Washington, Jan 27, 2004

·Mount Washington·Yale Gully, Huntington Ravine

28-year-old male from Southbridge, Massachusetts

Jason Gaumond, 28, was last seen in Milan, NH on the morning of January 27, 2004, and was reported missing the following day. His car was found at Pinkham Notch Visitor Center on January 29, and a search was initiated under extreme conditions (-11°F, winds averaging 75 mph gusting to 100 mph). His body was recovered on January 29 from the base of Yale Gully in Huntington Ravine, an area described as extremely technical terrain during winter; the incident was confirmed as non-avalanche-related.

What we can learn

Mount Washington's terrain and winter conditions require technical gear and special knowledge; winter enthusiasts should be prepared with proper winter survival equipment, knowledge of the terrain, current and forecasted weather conditions, and the latest avalanche advisory.

Contributing factors

Novice in winter terrainInadequate traction
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 for Mount Washington →

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.