Three snowmobilers were killed in an avalanche around 5 p.m. Saturday northeast of Golden.

Search and rescue crews tried to dig them out, but were only able to recover one of a group of four snowmobilers who were completely buried by snow on Mount Gerald.

"A group of four were completely buried and were witnessed by a second group of four snowmobilers, who immediately tried to rescue them." said Cpl. Dan Moskaluk of Golden RCMP. "They were able to unbury all four, recovering one individual with only minor injuries."

The lone survivor was taken to hospital, and the bodies had to be left at the scene overnight.

"Tomorrow morning at first light Golden search and rescue technicians will assess the situation and look at affecting a recovery of the deceased," said Moskaluk.

RCMP were in the process of notifying next-of-kin Saturday night.

Earlier in the afternoon, another avalanche in the Golden area triggered a search and rescue operation after a witness reported seeing two snowmobilers in the area just before it hit.

RCMP reported that everyone had been accounted for safe and sound.

"March is predominantely the highest incident rate period for the avalanche season," said Moskaluk. "We're asking back country . . . snowmobile users that they are always checking in with the Canadian Avalanche site to check conditions before heading out."

He issued a reminder that snowmobilers should also always be sure to carry probe sticks, a shovel and tranceiver devices.

Check back for updates.