EVERGREEN, COLORADO — On the morning of July 15, 2024, the Alpine Rescue Team responded to an emergency call involving an injured hiker on the Sawtooth, a treacherous third-class ridge connecting Mount Blue Sky and Mount Bierstadt. The call, received just before 9 AM, reported a lower leg injury and a possible loss of consciousness.
A rapid response team of 19 members was dispatched to Guanella Pass, with limited initial information about the hiker’s condition. Due to the severity of the situation, Flight for Life was summoned to transport team members and essential gear to a bench below Mt. Bierstadt’s summit. However, deteriorating weather conditions necessitated a dual approach, with a hasty team advancing on foot while a larger field team followed.
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Upon reaching the patient on the ridge, team members stabilized her leg injury with a splint. After assessing her condition, they determined she was stable enough to be moved with assistance. The rescue team then coordinated efforts to help the patient and her two climbing partners hike out of the area safely.
This rescue operation underscores a critical lesson for all outdoor enthusiasts: the importance of wearing bright clothing. Despite multiple flyovers by Flight for Life’s trained rescue spotters, the injured hiker was never visible from the air. Bright clothing can significantly enhance visibility and expedite rescue efforts in emergency situations.
Alpine Rescue Team extends their gratitude to Flight for Life Colorado, Clear Creek County Sheriff’s Office, and Jeffcom 911 for their invaluable assistance during this challenging rescue.
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Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
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The Sawtooth Ridge route between Mount Bierstadt and Mount Blue Sky is a difficult, class 3 route that requires climbing skills. This is not the first time someone has been injured along this well-known, exposed ridge.
According to the 14ers.com route guide for the ridge, it is not recommended for beginners. However, the ridge’s proximity to Denver and the standard route on Mount Bierstadt often proves too tempting to newcomers who end up injured, lost, or worse along the rugged mountain ridge.
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
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