Colorado Climber Dies in Fall Near Eisenhower Tunnel on Continental Divide

On New Year’s Eve, a tragic incident occurred on Citadel Peak along the Continental Divide in Colorado. A climber died after falling hundreds of feet while out enjoying favorable weather conditions. Accompanied by a 29-year-old female partner from Boulder, the climber fell from a ridge at approximately 2 p.m. His identity and age have not yet been disclosed.

Rescue Efforts on Citadel Peak

The incident prompted a significant rescue operation. Responding teams faced challenges due to rising winds that hindered helicopter access. A Flight for Life helicopter attempted multiple landings near the accident site but had to withdraw due to adverse conditions.

Steve Wilson from the Alpine Rescue Group explained, “It’s a sharp peak. They can’t land right where our subjects are.” Eventually, a Colorado National Guard Black Hawk helicopter was deployed, retrieving rescue members while ground teams approached the climbers on foot.

Challenges Faced by Rescuers

• The rescue operation began in daylight but continued after sunset.
• Rescue technicians were lowered to where the fallen climber was located.
• No signs of life were found upon their arrival.
• Another technician was sent to the ridge where the female climber was stranded.

Rescuers described the woman’s position as precarious but accessible. Steve Wilson remarked on the difficulty she faced, stating, “It would have been very difficult to climb herself down.” The recovery efforts concluded around 8 p.m., with ground teams making their way out by 9 p.m.

Investigation into the Incident

Currently, the cause of the climber’s fall remains undetermined. Wilson noted, “They were up above all of the snow. They were in the rocks.” Describing the event as a tragic accident, he emphasized that the climbers were not inexperienced, stating they seemed well-prepared and equipped.

“Accidents happen. That’s an unfortunate way to end the year. A tragic end,” Wilson concluded. The pair was passionate about climbing and enjoyed the stunning backcountry of Colorado, a region known for its beauty and adventure opportunities.