WEST GLACIER, Mont. — A 26-year-old Pennsylvania woman drowned after being swept over a waterfall on the east side of Glacier National Park, park officials said.
The woman fell into the water above St. Mary Falls at around 5:20 p.m. Sunday. She was washed over the 35-foot (11-meter) tall waterfall and trapped under water for several minutes, the park said in a statement.
Bystanders pulled the woman from the water and administered CPR until emergency responders arrived. She was declared dead at 7 p.m., park officials said.
The woman’s death is under investigation and an autopsy is planned.
Her name was being withheld until family members could be notified.
Drowning is one of the leading causes of death in Glacier National Park, according to the National Park Service.
Glacier National Park in Montana is known for its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife, but it can also be a dangerous place for those who are not cautious. A tragic incident occurred recently when a woman from Pennsylvania drowned after being swept over a waterfall in the park.
The woman, whose identity has not been released, was hiking with a group of friends near the St. Mary Falls when she slipped and fell into the rushing waters. Despite efforts to rescue her, she was swept over the waterfall and tragically drowned.
This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of safety when exploring the great outdoors. Waterfalls can be deceptively dangerous, with strong currents and slippery rocks posing a significant risk to hikers and swimmers. It is crucial for visitors to heed warning signs and exercise caution when near bodies of water in national parks.
Glacier National Park officials have issued a statement urging visitors to stay on designated trails and avoid venturing too close to the edge of waterfalls or other hazardous areas. They also recommend wearing appropriate footwear with good traction and staying alert to changing weather conditions that could impact water levels and currents.
In the wake of this tragic event, park rangers are conducting an investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the woman’s death and to assess any potential safety measures that could be implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the woman who lost her life in this heartbreaking accident. May her memory serve as a reminder to all visitors to Glacier National Park to prioritize safety and respect the power of nature when exploring its breathtaking landscapes.
