A backcountry avalanche claimed the life of a 46-year-old Magrath man Saturday afternoon.

Crowsnest Pass RCMP reported that two adult males and two children were snowmobiling between Carbondale and Castle Mountain Ski Resort when an avalanche occurred.

RCMP say one of the men escaped with the children but the second male was buried in the snow. 

The incident was reported to Crowsnest Pass and Pincher Creek RCMP around 6 p.m., and an investigation determined the incident took place at approximately 1 p.m.

Pincher Creek RCMP recovered the body of the missing male early Sunday afternoon with assistance from Southwest Alberta Regional Search and Rescue, Fernie Search and Rescue K9 and handler, and Alberta Conservation.

Condolences are extended to the family and friends of the deceased.