Drone technology played a critical role in a recent high-angle rescue in El Dorado Canyon, where three climbers became stranded hundreds of feet up a sheer rock face. Facing cold conditions and limited visibility, the climbers were unable to descend safely on their own, prompting a response from Rocky Mountain Rescue and the Boulder Emergency Squad.
Rescuers say drones dramatically improved the efficiency and safety of the operation, cutting the rescue time by 50%. Equipped with lights and live video, the drones allowed teams to locate the climbers quickly and guide rescuers from above. In steep terrain where visibility is limited, this aerial perspective proved essential, helping direct a rescuer precisely to the stranded climbers without unnecessary trial and error.
The technology ultimately helped cut rescue time significantly, with all three climbers safely returned to the ground after a six-hour operation. Rescue teams say tools like drones are becoming increasingly valuable, especially as call volumes rise during warmer months, offering a faster and more accurate way to respond in complex mountain environments.
Boulder County Sheriff’s Office Press Release:
On Sunday, April 12, 2026, at approximately 8:15 p.m., the Boulder County Communications Center received a report of climbers in need of assistance on the Naked Edge climbing route in Eldorado Canyon State Park.
A group of three climbers reported they were unable to continue their ascent after losing their route and not having headlamps as darkness fell. The lead climber was positioned on pitch five of the route, while the two additional climbers remained on pitch four. The climbers encountered challenges with rope management and pace, resulting in becoming delayed on the route after nightfall.
Rocky Mountain Rescue Group responded to the technical rescue, and Boulder Emergency Squad aided with drone support. Rescuers were able to maintain visual contact with one of the lower climbers via drone, while additional rescuers worked to assist the lead climber. Verbal contact was established with the climbers at approximately 10:19 p.m.
Rescuers reached the first climber at approximately 10:30 p.m. and provided warming supplies. A rescuer rappelled approximately 105 feet to reach the two lower climbers, securing them at approximately 11:31 p.m. The two climbers on the lower pitch were then assisted in ascending the final pitch of the route, completing the technical portion of the climb at approximately 12:58 a.m. All three climbers safely returned to the trailhead at approximately 2:25 a.m.
The Boulder County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind outdoor enthusiasts of several important safety considerations. Climbers attempting long or technical routes should carefully manage their time and ensure they have a realistic plan to complete their objective well before dark. Always carry reliable headlamps with extra batteries, even for routes expected to be completed during daylight hours. Additionally, climbers should bring sufficient food and water to sustain themselves in the event of delays, as well as appropriate layers to stay warm in rapidly changing mountain weather conditions. Mild daytime temperatures can quickly become cold and hazardous after sunset.
The Boulder County Sheriff’s Office would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the dedicated volunteers of Rocky Mountain Rescue Group and Boulder Emergency Squad, whose skill, coordination, and commitment were instrumental in the successful outcome of this rescue. Their willingness to respond at all hours and in challenging conditions continues to make our community safer.
Members of the media and public can view video from the rescue on the Sheriff’s Office’s official social media channels.
Agencies assisting with the rescue effort included: Boulder County Sheriff’s Office Emergency Services Unit, Boulder Emergency Squad, and Rocky Mountain Rescue Group.
