11.9.2023 Cow Creek Rescue

On November 9, 2023, at approximately 1:45 PM, Gallatin County 911 received a call for assistance for an injured hunter in the Cow Creek area of the Bridger Mountain Range.  The injured person was hunting with his adult son when he slipped and injured his lower leg.  His son hiked out of the area to find cell service and called 911.

Search and Rescue members responded to the area and utilized side by side ATVs to get to his location. SAR members provided first aid, then transported him and his son by side by side out of the area back to their personal vehicle. The injured individual determined that his son could provide transportation to further medical attention, and he and his son left the area in their own vehicle.

Gallatin County Sheriff Dan Springer would like to remind backcountry recreationists that adventures may not go according to plan, and it is important to pack for contingencies.  Even when the plan is to be exercising all day, it is a good practice to bring warm enough clothing, food, water, and survival gear that you can safely spend the night as temperatures drop in the event you are unable to move and must await rescue.  Furthermore, cellular service is spotty at best in the backcountry and a communication plan that does not depend on cell service is a good idea.