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Glacier Park Hiker Rescued After Falling into Crevasse

By Beacon Staff

An out-of-state hiker who fell roughly 40 feet into a crevasse in Glacier National Park successfully rescued himself and hiked nearly three miles to a backcountry campground, according to park officials.

The unidentified 36-year-old male from California was hiking on Jackson Glacier on Tuesday evening when he slid 30 to 40 feet into a deep, open crack, according to reports from backcountry campers.

Park officials said it appears the man self-rescued out of the crevasse and hiked roughly 2.5 miles to the Gunsight Lake Backcountry Campground, which is about five miles from the trailhead along the Going-to-the-Sun Road east of Logan Pass. Campers at the backcountry site assisted the injured man and spent the night at the campground with him.

Early Wednesday, three campers began hiking to the trailhead to report the need for medical assistance and that the man was unable to hike out due to his injuries. Several other campers stayed with the injured man. A backcountry ranger patrolling in the area was notified of the situation and contacted park dispatch for medical assistance just before 9 a.m. on Wednesday.

The A.L.E.R.T. Air Ambulance responded to the scene at approximately 10 a.m. and transported the man to medical facilities. The extent of the man’s injuries are unknown, but are not believed to be life threatening, according to park officials.

It is believed the man was hiking and climbing alone.

Park officials reminded visitors that traveling on or near glaciers is not recommended.