It was a heroic rescue.
A thrilling snowmobiling outing in Utah’s backcountry nearly turned into a tragedy when an avalanche buried a rider under the snow. Hunter Hansen was swept away by the powerful slide in Franklin Basin, near the Idaho border. Fortunately, his younger brother, Braeden Hansen, acted swiftly and saved his life. Equipped with an avalanche beacon, Braeden located Hunter buried approximately two feet deep and managed to dig him out just in time. The incident took place at an elevation of 8,400 feet, a region notorious for avalanche risks due to unstable snowpack.
The brothers had been exploring meadows in Logan Canyon and were ascending to a higher point when disaster struck. Riding ahead, Braeden noticed the snow begin to shift and realized an avalanche was forming. He could only watch in horror as the snow engulfed Hunter, burying him roughly 150 yards from where he had been moments before. Despite the perilous circumstances, Braeden’s prompt actions ensured his brother’s survival, freeing him from beneath the densely packed snow.
Hunter recounted the avalanche as the most terrifying moment of his life, describing how he was violently swept down the mountain and trapped beneath what felt like solid concrete. Although he sustained bruises and a possible leg injury, he considered himself incredibly fortunate to have survived. Trapped and unable to move or call for help, Hunter could only listen to the voices of his brother and father coordinating the rescue through their radios. Relief overwhelmed him when Braeden began digging him out, bringing him back to safety.
The brothers highlighted the importance of carrying essential safety gear, such as beacons, shovels, and airbag devices, when venturing into avalanche-prone areas. Their preparation played a critical role in Hunter’s rescue, preventing a devastating outcome. Avalanches are a major danger in the U.S., causing an average of 27 fatalities annually, with Utah ranking among the top states for avalanche deaths since 1951.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Hunter expressed deep gratitude for his brother’s quick thinking and emphasized the importance of vigilance and proper training in the backcountry. Their story underscores the unpredictable nature of avalanches and the lifesaving value of being prepared.
