Guy Lacelle at Festiglace 2005 in Pont Rouge, Quebec. (NEIce.com file photo/Alden Pellett)

It was 10 years ago today, Dec. 10, 2009 that Guy Lacelle was killed in an avalanche during the Bozeman Ice Fest in Montana. “A small pocket of snow pulled out and caught him. It hit him and took him off the cliff, down the ice, said Doug Chabot, director of the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center.

Guy Lacelle at Festiglace. Photo Doug Millen

Guy Lacelle was regarded as one of the world’s top ice climbers. His ability to easily and comfortably solo ice climbs of all grades was legendary.  No one has climbed as much ice as Guy Lacelle. But more than his ice climbing ability, it was his bigger than life personality that everyone loved. Such a humble, funny, kind and talented man. Everyone loved Guy. He has been missed but lives on in the hearts of everyone who knew him. 

Avalanches take so many climbers. The variables are so hard to pin down and the risks are very high. No amount of skill can make you totally safe. Always be aware of the ever-changing snow conditions to increase your odds in this dangerious game we play.

Climb smart, be safe, and ENJOY!