Tragic news -- 3 backcountry skiers in Colorado were found dead following a huge avalanche this week ... after being buried in more than 20 feet of tumbling ice and snow.
A group of 7 skiers was traveling between Silverton and Ophir when they accidentally triggered an avalanche near a well-known area called "The Nose" on Feb. 1, according to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC).
The report says the incident happened at an elevation of approximately 11,500 feet ... and 4 members were caught up in the avalanche.
The CAIC states the group was able to find and dig out one of the missing members .