Where to Ski And Snowboard - Moose on the loose in Breckenridge

Moose on the loose in Breckenridge

14th March 2017, by Abi Butcher

A snowboarder in Breckenridge came up close and personal with a moose last week

Skiers and snowboarders in Breckenridge, Colorado, had a big surprise last Friday — the sight of a moose hurtling down the piste.

The moose was spotted — and videod — by snowboarder Cheri Luther, who found herself within a few metres of the massive animal. Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) has studied the footage and says the moose appeared to be a female and was agitated, evidenced by the hair standing up on her neck.

Moose are one of the most dangerous animal in the wilds of Colorado, with males weighing up to 700kg and females up to 360kg. Cheri Luther is heard on the video shouting that she doesn’t know where to go.

CPW advises anyone who finds themselves in a similar situation to stop skiing and try to put a large object — for example a tree — between themselves and the animal. If the moose charges, keep moving around the tree to avoid it, if possible. Also, said CPW, don’t take out your phone.

Read Where to Ski and Snowboard’s review of Breckenridge

John Buhler, vice president and chief operating officer of Breckenridge Ski Resort, said in a statement: “We share the mountain with a number of animals that live in the area and this is a good reminder for guests and employees alike to keep away from wildlife and report any moose sightings right away.”

In late December, a lynx strolled through a crowd of skiers in the Purgatory resort in southwestern Colorado.

Watch the video here