The Colorado Springs Fire Department rescued a climber who fell approximately 25 to 30 feet in Colorado Springs’ popular North Cheyenne Cañon on March 30, with the climber ultimately transported from the scene in critical condition.

The climber’s fall took place at about 2:17 p.m. on March 30. While communication initially described the patient as a hiker, a later update clarified that a climber was involved. Uphill traffic was closed in the canyon while the rescue was conducted in rugged terrain described as “very high up from the road,” later described as about 400 feet. The patient was not wearing a helmet at the time of the fall.

According to the Colorado Springs Fire Department, the climber lost his grip while securing himself and gear failed. His climbing partner was able to find someone to call 911 and guide rescue crews to the fallen climber.

While the injuries the climber sustained were not described, ‘whole blood’ was said to be on standby while the patient was lowered by the high angle rescue crew. The term is generally associated with a patient that has significant blood loss or internal bleeding.

By 6 p.m., it was reported that the hiker had been successfully rescued and was transported to medical care in critical condition via ambulance.

North Cheyenne Cañon is located on the west side of Colorado Springs and is a popular spot for hiking, trail running, and mountain biking. The area also attracts some climbers though established sport routes are relatively limited compared to other options in the area.

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