In the winter of 1910, heavy snows accumulated in the Cascade Mountains, particularly affecting the route of the Great Northern Railway. This railroad was essential for connecting the Midwest with the Pacific Northwest. The region, known for its steep mountains and significant snowfall, posed inherent risks for train travel during winter months. On March 1, a massive avalanche was triggered by the pressures of the deep snowpack, overwhelming even the most prepared defenses against winter weather. As the avalanche rushed down the mountainside, it struck a passenger train carrying 96 people near Snoqualmie Pass.

The train was completely engulfed by the snow as it made its way through the treacherous terrain. Rescue efforts were immediately launched, but the sheer volume of snow and debris hindered access to the site. Emergency crews worked tirelessly for days to recover the victims, but the harsh conditions delayed their efforts. The tragedy was compounded by the fact that many individuals were trapped and lost their lives before help could reach them. The incident highlighted the dangers of train travel in mountainous areas during severe winter weather.

This deadly disaster led to increased scrutiny regarding railroad safety protocols in mountainous regions and prompted changes in how railways managed winter conditions. The Great Northern Railway significantly improved its avalanche control practices, employing more proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with avalanches, such as increasing the use of snow sheds and tunnels to protect trains. This incident remains one of the deadliest avalanches in U.S. history, standing as a somber reminder of the power of nature and the vulnerabilities faced by transportation infrastructure.