By Gabby Sherwood, Communications Associate
Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) has the third highest incidence of search and rescue (SAR) across the National Park Service.
The park’s accessible mountain terrain attracts more than four million visitors annually, and while accidents can happen even to the most experienced hikers and climbers, many incidents can be prevented through education and preparation.
To meet this need, RMNP’s search and rescue program relies on highly trained staff, specialized equipment, and dedicated seasonal support—all areas supported by Conservancy donors.
One wrong step
In March 2025, KT and her husband were hiking near Longs Peak after summiting Mount Lady Washington and reaching the Keyhole on a beautiful spring day. During their descent, changing light conditions caused KT to misstep and slide into a boulder, resulting in a serious injury.
Determined to self-rescue, the experienced mountaineers spent four hours covering just two miles before calling for help as evening approached. Rocky Mountain National Park quickly mobilized more than 30 search and rescue team members trained in high-country rescue.
Responders provided expert medical care and safely carried KT down the mountain. Looking back, she wishes she and her husband had not waited to call.
“I wish we would have called sooner,” said KT. “Rocky’s search and rescue staff are so resourceful and kind. They could have helped us much sooner and talked us through a safer plan.”
Grateful for the responders and for Rocky Mountain Conservancy’s support of their training and equipment, KT now trains with Rocky’s search and rescue team herself, inspired to help others in their time of need.
Supporting Rocky’s lifeline
SAR are the park’s wilderness first responders, managing incidents in Rocky’s most challenging terrain, while also preventing emergencies through visitor education. Did you know Rocky Mountain Conservancy supports the following search and rescue efforts and operations:
- Preventative search and rescue (PSAR)
- The SAR equipment cache
- Climbing steward positions
- Seasonal staff support
- Wilderness medical and technical rescue training
Summer is the busiest and most popular season for visitors, resulting in a high volume of search and rescues. Rocky Mountain Conservancy is proud to support the park’s wilderness first responders and ensure they have the support, training, and gear needed to work safely and effectively.