The Whitefish Fire Department responded to a dramatic scene that occurred on the Avalanche Lake Trail in Glacier National Park Sunday night, with 3 people falling into the gorge.
Part of the rescue was captured on camera by a bystander as they were hiking back down from Avalanche Lake. Dulé Krivdich, who filmed the incident, shared that one individual could be seen clinging to a fallen tree as rescuers were repelling down to him. The other 2 individuals had tumbled all the way down to the bottom of the gorge and were recovered below.
One patient was transported away from the scene by helicopter and the other two were transported by ground ambulance. The status of the three patients is currently unknown.
The waters of Glacier National Park can be incredibly cold and dangerous even during the hottest months of the year. Moss-covered rocks, slippery logs, fast flowing waters, and other slip dangers all present risks to park visitors who aren’t cautious and children, photographers, boaters, rafters, swimmers, and fishermen have all fallen victim to the park’s frigid streams and rivers. Visitors should be cautious around waters, avoiding slippery rocks or logs especially near waterfalls.
“Never walk, play, or climb on slippery rocks or logs, especially near waterfalls. When boating, don’t stand up or lean over the side, and always wear a lifejacket. Try to avoid wearing sweat-soaked clothing and dress in layers, rather than in a single bulky garment. Avoid wearing cotton layers such as t-shirts and blue jeans. Pack a rainproof layer and warm wool hat for every hike. Consider bringing along a backup pair of wool socks.” Glacier National Park