Alaskan Heli Ski Guide Killed In Avalanche, RIP Dylan Lenzie
Palmer, Alaska-based heli skiing outfit Crown Mountain Guides (CMG) is mourning the loss of longtime guide Dylan Lenzie.
Lenzie died in an avalanche while guiding in the West Bench area of Gannet Glacier on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, according to a social media post by Crown Mountain Guides.
"[Lenzie] was rapidly located by a fellow guide, extricated from the snow, and immediately transported by helicopter to Matsu Regional Hospital," writes CMG. "Though Dylan was alive when he arrived at the hospital, he succumbed to his injuries on Saturday morning, May 2, 2026, alongside his family and close friends."
Skiers such as Sammy Carlson, Sander Hadley, and Toby Rafford have left comments of support to honor Lenzie. Carlson writes, "So sorry to hear. Dylan was an epic guy. From the first time we locked eyes, you could feel his sincerity. Sending my condolences to Dylan's Family, friends, Crown fam & the guiding community. Shred in Peace, Dylan."
Lenzie is the 23rd person to die from avalanche-related causes in the United States during the Winter 25/26 season, according to avalanche.org.
CMG wrote more about Lenzie and his impact:
"Dylan was a skilled guide and a respected senior member of our team. He was a beloved member of the Alaska mountain community and a colleague and friend of the Hatcher Pass Avalanche Center. He was a cherished partner, a much-loved son and brother, and a friend to so many of us.
"There is no easy way to say what Dylan meant to us. He was the kind of person you wanted in the helicopter with you, on the boot pack with you, at the table with you at the end of the day. He loved this work, this place, and the people he shared it with. To everyone who skied with him, guided alongside him, or crossed paths with him in the Alaska mountain community, you know. He is one of the good ones. The mountains are quieter without him, and so are we.
"We will share ways to support Dylan's partner and family as soon as plans are in place. Further announcements regarding memorials, a GoFundMe, and a memorial service will be shared in the coming days.
If you have a memory of Dylan, we would be grateful if you shared it. Please be kind to each other in this space."
Related: Colorado Expecting 18+ Inches of "Miracle May" Snow To Fall, but There's a Catch
Copyright 2026 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved
This story was originally published May 4, 2026 at 12:56 PM.