Mount McKinley in Denali National Park.
Mount McKinley in Denali National Park. Credit: NPS Photo / Mary Lewandowski

Tragic news out of Denali National Park & Preserve where a National Park Service employee has died after falling into a crevasse on Mount McKinley.

The employee, identified as Robin Pendery of Enumclaw, Washington, was on climbing patrol near 14,000 Foot Camp around 2pm on Thursday, June 4th, when the fall occurred. Pendery joined the Denali mountaineering staff in 2024, working to support climber safety, emergency response, and mountaineering operations on North America’s highest peak.

Personnel responded immediately, working to conduct rescue efforts, but the employee tragically did not survive. The incident is currently under investigation at this time.

“We are heartbroken by the loss of a member of our Denali family. Our mountaineering rangers dedicate themselves to serving visitors and helping others in one of the most challenging environments in the world. Today, we mourn the loss of a valued colleague, friend and teammate. Our thoughts are with Robin’s family and loved ones.” – Superintendent Brooke Merrell.

The National Park Service is currently working to support the employee’s family, friends, and colleagues. Further information will be released as it becomes available and is appropriate to share.

Our deepest condolences are with the friends, family, and loved ones of Robin Pendery at this time.

Tim Konrad is the founder and publisher of Unofficial Networks, a leading platform for skiing, snowboarding, and outdoor adventure. With over 20 years in the ski industry, Tim’s global ski explorations...