02/28/2026
We lost our brother, Stratton Matteson, in a tragic avalanche in Canada. The mountains suddenly feel quieter without him.
Stratton was one of the purest souls I’ve ever known—a rare spirit whose presence lifted everyone around him. His energy was contagious. His light was real. He moved through the world with gratitude, humility, and a deep respect for the mountains.
Adventure, for Stratton, was never about ego or recognition. It was about the journey. The effort. The connection to the land and the people beside him. He led by example every single day—with grit, kindness, and that unmistakable spark in his eye when the skintrack stretched toward the horizon.
WE had the privilege of being his riding partners, his teammates, and his friends, and I like to think, at times, mentors. But the truth is, he was mentoring us all along. From the very first time I met him, Stratton showed up to life with gratitude, with joy, and with a deeper awareness, almost an innocence in the way he moved through this world. He recognized and appreciated the intricate beauty he was immersed in, always carrying an unmatched respect for the mountains and for the experience.
Stratton wasn’t just part of the Cardiff Crew. He was family. A brother. A pillar in the Northwest and across the greater snow community around thge world.
Our hearts are with his family and loved ones during this unimaginable loss. We stand beside them in grief and in love.
His story doesn’t end here. His imprint lives on in how we travel through the mountains—with awareness, respect, and care for one another.
We will honor him in every step, every climb, every turn.
We love you, brother.
Ride in peace.
United by snow. Forever.
With all our love, your humble student, 🫶
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