Two separate hikers out on Quandary Peak were rescued on the same day after calling for help due to post-holing in the soft and deep snow last week.
According to the Summit County Sheriff’s Department, both hikers were successfully located and assisted back to the trailhead with no injuries reported, though one of the hikers did lose a shoe. The week prior, between April 7 and April 13, three other hikers were rescued on Quandary Peak including one wearing just shorts and tennis shoes.
Post-holing occurs when an individual’s leg or body breaks through the top of layer snow, causing them to sink knee deep or further. A firm morning top layer can soften as the temperatures get warmer in the spring, increasing the risk of post-holing.
To avoid post-holing, hikers and recreators are encouraged to use backcountry skis or snowshoes where applicable. Even if a hiker isn’t in danger of getting stuck or exhausted while post-holing, it can damage the trail for others using proper gear on the trail.
