👉🏻 July 26, 2025 Article Update — An earlier version of this article misattributed two quotes, which have since been corrected.
As Colorado’s summer hiking season hits full stride, search and rescue (SAR) teams across the state are reporting an alarming increase in backcountry missions — especially on popular and technical 14ers. The spike in rescues, many of them requiring resource-intensive helicopter hoists, is placing unprecedented strain on Colorado’s all-volunteer backcountry search and rescue system.
In Aspen, Mountain Rescue Aspen has already responded to 18 missions between June and mid-July — five more than this time last year and well above the seasonal average. “We’re definitely seeing more activity,” said Jordan White, president of Mountain Rescue Aspen. “Technical rescues on peaks like Capitol, Snowmass, and the Maroon Bells are keeping us busy.”
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Summit and Clear Creek counties are seeing similar patterns. Alpine Rescue Team, based in Evergreen, is on track to match last year’s record-breaking 172 missions. In Summit County, the local SAR group surpassed 120 missions by mid-July and may approach its 2021 high of 220 by season’s end.
The most serious cases often involve helicopter hoists — complex, expensive, and dangerous operations carried out by the Colorado Hoist Rescue Team in collaboration with the National Guard. Already this year, there have been 18 hoist requests, including daring rescues on Capitol Peak, Quandary Peak, and Torreys Peak — the last being one of the highest helicopter rescue ever recorded in the state after two hikers were struck by lightning (Summit Daily News).
“Helicopters are expensive and dangerous,” said Anna DeBattiste, spokesperson for the Colorado Search and Rescue Association. “We don’t just press a button and order them because it would make everyone’s life easier. There’s a detailed process for justifying the need and getting it approved.”
Adding to the strain are false emergency alerts from satellite-enabled smartphones. In recent weeks, at least ten Colorado counties have received dozens of inaccurate 911 texts from iPhones claiming people were “trapped by fire” or “lost,” prompting unnecessary mobilizations of rescue crews. While believed to be a glitch rather than malicious, these phantom alerts still consume precious time and resources (Colorado Sun).
Why the Spike?
The exact cause of the surge remains uncertain. Anecdotally, some attribute it to rapid snowmelt opening alpine terrain earlier, and high temperatures on the Front Range driving more recreationists into the mountains. Technology has made it easier for hikers to call for help when injured or lost, but may also be encouraging people to take on challenges beyond their experience.
SAR experts are also seeing more complex and dangerous incidents, leading to more requests for state-level assistance. DeBattiste said, “Anecdotally, it seems busy.” However, there are no single dataset or statistics available for Colorado SAR missions to confirm this statewide.
Despite the rising numbers, SAR teams emphasize that they want people to keep exploring the outdoors — safely and responsibly.
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
How to Prevent a Rescue
Preventing a backcountry emergency starts with good planning and preparation. Follow these essential safety tips before heading out:
1. Carry the 10 Essentials:
Navigation tools, headlamp, sun protection, first aid, knife, fire starter, shelter, extra food, water, and clothing can save your life.
2. Leave a Trip Plan:
Tell someone where you’re going, what route you plan to take, and when you expect to return.
3. Stick to Standard Routes:
Most rescues involving “cliffed-out” hikers happen when people try shortcuts or non-standard trails. On 14ers, there are no safe shortcuts — the standard route is your best bet.
4. Know the Conditions and Your Limits:
Check current trail conditions on 14ers.com or local forums, and don’t push past your skill level. If you’re unsure, consider turning back — the mountain will still be there tomorrow.
5. Keep Your Dog’s Limits in Mind:
Dogs can easily overexert themselves. If you’re unsure they can handle the hike, it’s best to leave them at home.
6. Use a Satellite Communicator:
Devices like a Garmin inReach or ZOLEO let you call for help if you’re out of cell range, and can provide rescuers your exact location.
7. Don’t Hesitate to Call 911:
Colorado’s SAR teams are free and volunteer-based. They’d rather get called early than late — delaying a call can put lives at greater risk.
Support the Teams That Support You
Colorado’s SAR network is made up of unpaid volunteers who buy their own gear, train year-round, and respond to every call, no matter the weather or hour. You can help support them in two easy ways:
Buy a CORSAR Card: For just $3 per year, this card helps fund local SAR operations statewide. It’s not insurance, but it ensures SAR teams are reimbursed for costs when they respond.
Get a Keep Colorado Wild Pass: Available during your vehicle registration for just $29, this pass supports both state parks and search and rescue efforts, while giving you unlimited access to Colorado’s state parks.
As we head into the busiest stretch of summer hiking season, remember that safety starts with you. With proper preparation and respect for the risks, you can summit Colorado’s peaks — and help protect the volunteers who are ready to come to your aid if things go wrong.
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