ALAMOSA, COLORADO – On the afternoon of July 26, Alamosa Volunteer Search and Rescue (AVSAR) responded to an emergency call about an injured hiker on Ellingwood Point. The hiker had fallen during the descent and, aware that he was off route, was unable to continue due to his injuries and the challenging terrain.
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- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
Upon receiving the call, AVSAR quickly mobilized its resources. Severe afternoon storms over the Blanca Massif prevented a helicopter insertion, so the AVSAR specialty 4×4 team transported rescue teams up Lake Como Road. From there, the rescuers proceeded on foot.
As darkness approached, the rescue teams were within 300 vertical feet of the injured hiker but had to halt due to unsafe conditions. The teams spent the night near the hiker’s location, preparing to resume the rescue at first light. The hiker, however, was not prepared for overnight conditions and had run out of water and food.
Recognizing the urgency of the situation, AVSAR’s incident command team requested assistance from the Colorado National Guard. At 6:00 AM on July 27, the National Guard hoisted the hiker off the mountain and transported him to the Lake Como helipad. From there, he was transferred to REACH29 out of Salida and taken to medical care. By 6:45 AM, the hiker was en route to the hospital, where he was later released and began his recovery.
All AVSAR teams safely exited the field later that afternoon.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
Tips and Lessons Learned
- Stay on the Route: Familiarize yourself with the trail and stay on the designated path to avoid hazardous terrain.
- Prepare for Emergencies: Always carry sufficient food, water, and emergency supplies, even for short hikes.
- Check Weather Conditions: Be aware of weather forecasts and plan your hike to avoid severe weather.
- Communicate Your Plan: Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time.
- Use Proper Gear: Ensure you have appropriate gear for the terrain and weather conditions.
Support SAR Teams
Search and rescue operations like this one highlight the dedication and bravery of SAR teams. You can support AVSAR and other SAR teams by purchasing a Colorado Outdoor Recreation Search and Rescue (COSAR) card. The funds help ensure these teams have the resources they need for future rescues.
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