Bad things to see tumbling down a mountain on their own NYT crossword clue

This clue paints a vivid picture of an unsettling scenario on a snowy slope. When something is “tumbling down a mountain on their own,” it’s often a sign that something has gone wrong. While avalanches or rocks might come to mind first, the clue uses a lighter and more specific tone, suggesting a personal object rather than a natural disaster. The key phrase “on their own” implies that the item is out of control and not being used as intended.

The correct answer is SKIS. Skis are designed to glide smoothly down a mountain with a person controlling them. But when skis are seen tumbling on their own, it usually means the skier has fallen or lost control—definitely a “bad thing” to witness, especially if you’re the skier or nearby. This playful yet precise clue captures that unsettling moment perfectly.