General Information on Mt. Rescue (and April 27 Eldo Accident)

The accident in Eldorado Canyon on April 27, 2008 raised an interesting series of questions in internet forums regarding the ensuing rescue effort, and about mountain rescue operations and techniques more broadly. Many of these questions are addressed in our “Operational FAQ”. Because rescues often benefit from the participation of bystanding climbers, we encourage those of you who are interested to review this information, with the hope that it will make it easier for you to assist us should the occasion arise.

We have posted a narrative account of the rescue on April 27. Historically we have tried to publicize lessons-learned from climbing accidents, when the lessons are significant and not obvious. In the case of this particular accident, the climbers involved have addressed the lessons-learned better than we can; however, due to interest in the climbing community we though it worthwhile to capture the events of the rescue, and the lessons-learned, into a single document.

If you find that our FAQ or our description of the April 27 rescue lead you to additional questions, feel free to contact RMRG. If you have interest in dedicating your time to assist lost and injured hikers, bikers, climbers and other people in need in the outdoors of Boulder County, we are always looking for new members. All of our meetings and practices are open to the public, and our schedule can be found at: rockymountainrescue.org/get… (always subject to change due to rescue responses).

Cordially,

Tim Holden
Group Leader
Rocky Mountain Rescue Group

Wow Tim thanks for taking the time to post this detailed narrative account of the rescue, along with photos & additional links etc.

While I was not there, nor questioning that "too-many" rescuers were worse than too few, you have directed me towards *many* of the important decisions you have to consider that I was not aware of. It's nice to know that anyone who may need a rescue by your group would seems to be receiving the best care possible care and consideration.

Thanks for being there and all that you do..!

Kirra

Good info. Thanks

Anyone who questions the technical abilities of these rescue groups should read the detailed narrative. Very informative and a good example of how skilled the rescue parties have to be and the high level of commitment needed to pull off such a rescue.

Thank you RMRG!