A 21-year-old rock climber died after “sustaining major injuries” while climbing Devil’s Tower National Monument, authorities said.
The fall occurred on Sunday shortly before 8 p.m. when Devils Tower Law Enforcement was informed that a rock climber, Stewart Phillip Porter, a 21-year-old from Eau Claire, Wisconsin, was rappelling down the second pitch of El Cracko when he fell and sustained “major injuries” in a fall, according to a statement from the National Park Service released on Monday.
“Porter’s partner was stranded and later rescued from the wall of the Tower, with help from Devils Tower Lodge Climbing Guides and Buck Wild Climbing Guides,” officials said.
Over the 100 plus year climbing history at the Tower, there have only been seven climbing deaths, according to the National Park Service.
Devils Tower rises above its surrounding landscape.
NPS / Avery Locklear
“While climbing fatalities at Devils Tower are infrequent, it is still inherently dangerous,” park officials said.
The National Park Service took the opportunity to remind the public of proper safety measures to take while climbing.
“Check the local weather forecast before climbing and observe changing weather conditions,” officials said. “Watch for animals (stinging insects, birds, rodents and reptiles all live on the Tower) … [and] Consult multiple sources for information on a route, as suggested gear varies between guidebooks.”
“The majority of climbing accidents and deaths on the Tower occur during the rappel. The National Park Service does not maintain anchors – inspect all anchors and back them up if necessary. Ensure you know the location of your rappel route before you begin,” officials said. “Start rappels over the nose of columns to prevent ropes from jamming in cracks. Avoid knocking loose rock onto climbers below. Many rappels require two ropes; know the distance of your planned rappel before beginning.”
Devils Tower expressed appreciation for Devils Tower Lodge, Buck Wild Climbing Guides, Hulett EMS and the Crook County Sheriff’s Office and monument staff who assisted in search and recovery efforts, and offer condolences to the family, park officials said.
Tragedy struck the climbing community when a 21-year-old climber succumbed to injuries sustained from a fall off Devil’s Tower in Wyoming. The young man, whose name has not been released to the public, was an experienced climber who had tackled numerous challenging routes before attempting the iconic tower.
Devil’s Tower, a massive igneous rock formation that rises 1,267 feet above the surrounding terrain, is a popular destination for climbers from around the world. Its sheer vertical walls and unique hexagonal columns provide a challenging and exhilarating climbing experience for those brave enough to take on its heights.
The incident occurred when the climber was attempting to ascend one of the tower’s more difficult routes. Witnesses reported hearing a loud scream followed by the sound of a body hitting the ground. Emergency services were called to the scene, but despite their best efforts, the young man could not be saved.
The tragic accident serves as a sobering reminder of the inherent risks involved in the sport of rock climbing. Even the most experienced climbers can fall victim to accidents, no matter how well prepared they may be. It also highlights the importance of proper safety precautions and equipment when tackling challenging climbs like Devil’s Tower.
Climbing is a sport that requires a high level of skill, strength, and mental focus. It is crucial for climbers to be aware of their own limitations and to always prioritize safety above all else. This includes using proper safety gear, such as helmets, harnesses, and ropes, as well as being mindful of weather conditions and route difficulty.
The climbing community has been deeply saddened by the loss of one of its own, and tributes have been pouring in from fellow climbers and friends. The young man’s passion for the sport and adventurous spirit will be remembered by all who knew him.
As climbers continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of rock climbing, it is important to never forget the risks involved and to always approach each climb with caution and respect for the mountain. Devil’s Tower will forever stand as a reminder of the beauty and danger that can be found in the world of climbing.
