All too often we’re saddened by fallen-climber stories that occur in Colorado, so it was nice to read of last week’s lucky rescue of a climber in Rocky Mountain National Park.
Sterling Jordan, 57, fell while climbing Flattop Mountain last Monday. High winds blew him some 50 feet off the trail and into a rocky landing. With a fractured rib and pelvis, Jordan crawled on hands and knees 1,000 feet and lay in ice and snow for 24 hours, hoping to gather enough strength for a final descent.
Thankfully, Joe Gartner and Scott McCoy, doctoral students in geology, were out for a bit of backcountry skiing. When they investigated a crumpled form near the base of Ptarmigan Glacier, they discovered a disoriented Jordan.
The skiers wrapped him in warm clothes, gave him a pair of gloves, some water and a cookie.
But then, after having survived the fall and the night of exposure in the snow, Jordan faced the danger of a possible avalanche as the steep slopes were beginning to slough in the warming day.
Gartner and McCoy carried him to a safer spot and used Gartner’s cellphone to call for a rescue.
The men stayed with Jordan until help arrived, which took several hours due to the harsh conditions. We congratulate them for their service.
As we said, stories like this one can turn out for the worse. Jordan is fortunate to have had able and equipped backcountry experts happen upon him.
Ideally, this story might help others. The spring and summer climbing and hiking season is upon us. High places are calling.
With 54 peaks higher than 14,000 feet in Colorado, the state sees thousands of visitors seeking big mountain fun every year.
When you go, remember to follow some basic rules of safety: Climb with a partner. Make certain you’re well equipped and pack what you would need to survive an unexpected overnight stay.
Many things can go wrong. Mountaineers use the expression “The mountain doesn’t care” to remind themselves that, while the natural beauty of our lofty places is inspiring, the natural conditions there can quickly turn dangerous.
Pack waterproof clothes and extra layers, first-aid kits and plenty of sun block. Remember that summer conditions often create lightning strikes above treeline after noon, so summit early and get back down.
But do go out. There’s nothing quite like it.
