Mount Cowen Stranded Climbers

On September 29, 2024, at 5:12 pm, Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue received an agency assist request from the Park County Sheriff’s Office. According to the Park County Sheriff’s Office, two climbers were stranded in technical terrain without the ability to ascend or descend near the summit of Mount Cowen. The Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office was unable to launch a helicopter due to nightfall setting in. The Park County Sheriff’s Office worked with the Montana National Guard and US Air Force in an attempt to rescue the climbers, as overnight temps were going to dip into the teens.

Due to weather conditions, military assets were unable to complete the mission, and the climbers were forced to bivouac on the face overnight. The next morning the Park County Sheriff’s Office again requested the GCSSAR Heli Team. The Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Heli Team and Central Helicopters were finally able to respond to the scene and inserted a rescuer by utilizing a short haul technique. Both climbers were put into rescue harnesses and short hauled to safety.

Sheriff Dan Springer would like to remind those seeking outdoor opportunities this time of year to be prepared for any weather conditions including low overnight temperatures. Having the ability to contact help with cellular phones or satellite communication devices greatly increases the speed and efficiency of rescue efforts.