PITKIN COUNTY, COLORADO — A climber from Longmont, CO was successfully rescued yesterday on the Capitol Creek Trail after suffering a possible broken ankle during his descent of Capitol Peak. The class 4 fourteener is considered one of the most difficult and dangerous in the state. This incident marks the third search and rescue (SAR) mission on the trail this month, highlighting the ongoing risks associated with high-altitude hiking and this area in particular.
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- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
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At approximately 4:12 PM, the Pitkin County Regional Emergency Communications Center and the Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office received an SOS alert from a Garmin InReach device. The alert came from a climber descending the Capitol Creek Trail, part of the Northeast Ridge route on Capitol Peak.
Mountain Rescue Aspen (MRA) was informed of the situation shortly after the alert, and they established direct communication with the injured climber by 4:35 PM. The climber, a 44-year-old, had sustained a possible broken ankle after summiting Capitol Peak.
CareFlight of the Rockies was requested for air support and quickly diverted a nearby helicopter to the climber’s location. The helicopter landed near the trail at 5:20 PM, and the crew stabilized the climber before transporting them to Aspen Valley Hospital, arriving at 5:57 PM. The climber was treated for non-life-threatening injuries. The MRA team, staged at the Capitol Peak trailhead, was informed of the helicopter’s success and returned to Aspen.
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
This rescue is the third incident requiring SAR intervention on Capitol Creek Trail in July alone. On July 10th, a hiker was rescued due to severe abdominal pain, and the following day, a false alarm was triggered by an unintentional SOS device activation.
Safety Tips and Lessons Learned
- Use Reliable Equipment: Ensure all your navigation and communication devices are in good working order. Accidental SOS alerts can divert crucial resources.
- Be Prepared for Medical Emergencies: Carry a basic first-aid kit and know how to use it. Recognize the signs of serious conditions and act quickly.
- Understand the Terrain: High-altitude trails like Capitol Creek require physical preparation and acclimatization. Know your limits and plan accordingly.
- Stay Informed: Check weather conditions and trail reports before setting out. Unexpected changes can significantly impact your safety.
- Travel with a Partner: If possible, hike with a companion who can assist in emergencies or seek help if needed.
Support Search and Rescue Volunteers
Search and rescue missions are vital for outdoor safety. Supporting SAR volunteers helps ensure they have the resources needed to respond effectively. One way to support these efforts is by purchasing a COSAR Card, which directly funds SAR operations in Colorado.
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