BOZEMAN
Avalanche experts are concerned that a new lift extending almost to the crest of Bridger Bowl r e s o r t ' s fame d r i d ge i n Gallatin County could mean more skiers and snowboarders will find themselves in trouble in the backcountry. Hikers have had access to the territory for decades, but avalanche experts say the new Schlasman chair lift, as well as more liberal rules c o n c e r n i n g b a c kc o u n t r y access, could lure some skiers into dangerous situations. "In the last several years, there has been an open gate that has allowed skiers to travel into the backcountry. (Now), there's easier access to out-of-bounds skiing," said Ron Johnson, a special ist with the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center. The lift "puts you right into avalanche terrain without having to work or climb for it." B u t Doug Wa l e s, t h e resort's marketing director, says avalanche mitigation will be used on the new inbounds terrain opened up by the lift. Skiers also will be required to carry avalanche beacons if they want to board the Schlasman lift, which should be running next week. (AP)
