Four climbers fell on Mount McKinley (Denali), North America's tallest peak, overnight. Rescue operations are underway, with authorities awaiting a weather window for helicopter access.
The National Park Service reported on Thursday that a seven-person team was involved in the incident. The fall occurred near Denali Pass, at approximately 18,200 feet (5,547 meters) on the 20,310-foot (6,190-meter) mountain.
Rescue Status
The three remaining team members attended to those who fell and then returned to their camp near high camp at around 17,000 feet (5,181 meters). The conditions of the four climbers are not currently known.
Park rangers are seeking a weather window to allow helicopter access to the area. Weather conditions have been variable, with low cloud ceilings and limited visibility. Scott Carr, a park service spokesperson, stated that authorities were still awaiting an opportunity to safely fly and that helicopter operations will begin when a weather window opens.
Carr added that park officials have been in contact with the three climbers and that additional information would be released "if and when it becomes appropriate."
"This remains an active incident. The National Park Service is focused on rescue operations and notification of family members."
Background
Many climbing injuries and deaths have occurred on the traverse between high camp and Denali Pass, primarily resulting from unprotected falls. Park rangers and mountain guides install and maintain snow pickets between high camp and Denali Pass for anchors. Climbers are advised to carry their own pickets for additional protection. In June 2024, a climber died after falling 3,000 feet while ascending the West Buttress climbing route.
Other Incidents
On Wednesday, two climbers from a separate incident were evacuated from the mountain by helicopter around 11 p.m. The park service did not provide additional information.
Climbing Season and Tourism
The typical climbing season for Mount McKinley runs from late April to mid-July. As of Thursday, 516 climbers were on the mountain. Denali National Park and Preserve and Mount McKinley attract approximately 600,000 visitors annually, though many visitors do not see the mountain due to thick cloud cover.