ALAMOSA, COLORADO – A perilous rescue mission unfolded yesterday on the southwest approach to Ellingwood Point after a hiker fell, pinning his leg beneath a large boulder and suffering a severe arm fracture. The dramatic rescue involved multiple agencies and cutting-edge technology to save the injured climber from a treacherous terrain.
Alamosa Volunteer Search and Rescue (AVSAR) was alerted on August 4th through a Garmin SOS activation. The fallen hiker’s dire situation prompted an immediate response, with AVSAR contacting the climber to assess the situation and coordinate the rescue effort.
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- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
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Coordinated Rescue Operation
The rescue mission was a multi-agency effort. REACH 71, an emergency helicopter service, flew over the site to confirm the coordinates provided by the Garmin device and sent videos of the terrain to AVSAR’s incident command (IC). AVSAR then mobilized three modified truck teams equipped with technical gear to Blue Lakes, ready for a potential technical extraction.
Canon Helitack, a helicopter unit, was requested to insert five highly skilled STEP (Short Haul, Technical Extraction Program) qualified team members to the scene. The National Guard was also put on standby for a possible hoist extraction due to the climber’s immobile position on steep and loose terrain.
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
Challenging Extraction and Medical Aid
Upon arrival, the STEP team members found the climber’s condition and the terrain too hazardous for a hover extraction. The National Guard was activated to perform a hoist extraction instead. AVSAR team members on the scene splinted the hiker’s injuries and secured him in a litter, preparing him for extraction.
A National Guard rescue technician was then inserted at the site to assist with the hoist operation. The climber was successfully hoisted and transferred to REACH 71, which flew him to the front range for urgent medical treatment. Following the climber’s extraction, the National Guard returned to retrieve the five AVSAR team members from Pioneer Basin.
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
Gratitude for the Lifesaving Efforts
AVSAR expressed profound gratitude for the collaboration and swift action of all involved agencies. The successful rescue was made possible by:
- Alamosa County Sheriff’s Office
- Eagle Air Med – REACH 71
- Colorado National Guard – Hoist Rescue Team
- Colorado Search and Rescue Association (CSAR)
- Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control – Canon Helitack
Lessons Learned and Safety Tips for Hikers
This incident underscores the importance of being prepared for emergencies when hiking in remote and challenging terrains. Here are some crucial safety tips:
- Always Carry a Reliable Communication Device: Devices like Garmin SOS can be lifesavers.
- Hike with a Partner: It’s safer and provides immediate assistance if an accident occurs.
- Know Your Limits: Understand the difficulty of the terrain and your physical capabilities.
- Inform Others of Your Plans: Let someone know your route and expected return time.
- Carry a First Aid Kit: Be prepared to address injuries immediately until help arrives.
Supporting local search and rescue teams is essential for maintaining their readiness and capabilities. Consider purchasing a COSAR card to contribute to these life-saving efforts. You can buy one at this link.
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