CHAFFEE COUNTY, COLORADO — A 38-year-old man from Aurora, Colorado died on May 27 after a fall of more than 100 feet while hiking near Agnes Vaille Falls, according to the Chaffee County Sheriff’s Office.
At approximately 4:00 p.m., deputies responded to a report from hikers who had discovered a man lying face down in the creek bottom about half a mile up the popular trail. Upon arrival, sheriff’s deputies and detectives determined the man, identified as Ronald Eugene Stamm, had likely attempted to climb the cliff face near the falls without proper equipment. Investigators believe he lost his grip and fell.
Stamm had been hiking the trail with his wife and juvenile daughter earlier that day. According to authorities, the family reached the falls together before his wife and daughter returned to the trailhead. Stamm continued on alone.
Chaffee County Coroner Jeff Graff pronounced Stamm deceased at the scene. Chaffee County Search and Rescue North was called in to assist with the technical recovery of the body, which required extrication from the base of the cliff.
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A History of Risk at a Scenic Destination
Agnes Vaille Falls, located off County Road 162 west of Nathrop, is a scenic and accessible destination in the Sawatch Range of central Colorado. However, it has been the site of several previous accidents, including a deadly 2013 rockslide that killed five people and injured a sixth. While much of the trail is relatively moderate, the area around the falls presents significant hazards, including unstable rock formations, steep cliffs, and fast-moving water.
The terrain at the base of the falls is particularly dangerous for those attempting to climb or scramble off established paths. Unlike designated climbing areas, the falls do not have fixed protection or routes designed for human traffic. Attempting such climbs without ropes, helmets, or partners carries serious risk.
Outdoor Safety Reminders and Lessons Learned
This tragic incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of venturing off-trail or attempting technical terrain without proper equipment and training. Here are some key takeaways for backcountry users:
Know your limits: If a trail ends at a viewpoint or falls, treat that as your turnaround point unless you are properly equipped and trained for more advanced terrain.
Stay on established paths: Climbing off-route in wet or unstable conditions increases the chance of slips and falls.
Use the buddy system: Solo exploration—especially in technical or unknown areas—compounds risk. Always communicate your plans.
Understand the terrain: Just because a climb looks short or manageable doesn’t mean it’s safe. Unroped scrambling on wet or exposed rock faces can be fatal.
Support Colorado Search and Rescue Teams
Chaffee County Search and Rescue North is one of many all-volunteer teams across Colorado that respond to incidents like this. Their assistance in recovering Stamm’s body underscores the critical role SAR plays in ensuring public safety in the backcountry.
Readers can support Colorado’s volunteer search and rescue teams by purchasing a Colorado Outdoor Recreation Search and Rescue (COSAR) card, which helps fund operations and equipment. You can buy one here:
https://cpw.state.co.us/backcountry-search-and-rescue-program
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