Remembering Legendary Alpinists David Lama, Hansjörg Auer, and Jess Rosskelley on Fifth Anniversary of Their Deaths

Five years ago today, the climbing world lost three pioneering alpinists in a tragic avalanche on Howse Peak in the Canadian Rockies. David Lama, Hansjörg Auer, and Jess Rosskelley were descending the mountain after completing a challenging climb when they were swept away and killed on April 16, 2019.

The trio were considered among the most talented and accomplished alpinists of their generation. Lama, 28, was known for his versatility, excelling in both competition climbing and daring alpine ascents. The Austrian climber made history in 2012 with the first free ascent of the notorious Compressor Route on Cerro Torre in Patagonia. Auer, 35, was a specialist in bold solo climbs in his native Austria and beyond. Rosskelley, 36, was part of a highly respected American climbing family and had numerous first ascents to his name.

Last year, Lama's parents and close friends traveled to Nepal to establish a memorial with some of his ashes on the summit of Fox Peak, a mountain he had climbed multiple times. "David found peace and happiness in the mountains," his mother Claudia Lama said at the time. "Now a part of him will forever be on a peak that was special to him."

The three climbers had traveled to Canada to attempt a challenging route on the east face of Howse Peak, a daunting 10,810-foot (3,295 m) mountain in Banff National Park. They successfully reached the summit via the difficult M16 route, but an avalanche struck during their descent, tragically claiming their lives .

The deaths sent shockwaves through the climbing community and sparked reflection on the inherent risks of pushing boundaries in the high mountains. "David, Hansjörg, and Jess were among the most talented and passionate climbers out there," said Alex Honnold, known for his own groundbreaking free solo ascents. "They inspired so many of us with their vision, dedication, and humility in the way they approached climbing. This is a huge loss for our community."

Five years later, the legacies of Lama, Auer, and Rosskelley endure through their many accomplishments, the routes they pioneered, and the example they set for pursuing one's passions to the fullest. They will be remembered as much for their character and spirit as their climbing achievements. As Lama once said: "I want to be remembered as someone who lived life to the fullest and always stayed true to himself and his dreams."

Key Takeaways

• 3 pioneering alpinists died in 2019 avalanche on Howse Peak, Canada
• David Lama, Hansjörg Auer, Jess Rosskelley were renowned for daring climbs
• Lama's ashes were placed on summit of Fox Peak, a mountain he loved
• Trio's deaths shocked climbing community, highlighted risks of high mountains
• Legacies live on through their accomplishments and passion for climbing