A tragic incident occurred last weekend at Wyoming’s Devils Tower National Monument when a rock climber fell to his death, leaving his partner stranded on the cliff face.
According to a news release from the National Park Service (NPS), the climbers were scaling the renowned geological formation when one fell while rappelling down the second pitch of the route known as El Cracko Diablo. When emergency responders arrived, the climber was identified as 21-year-old Stewart Phillip Porter from Eau Claire, Wisconsin, and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Rick Strasser, a ranger with the NPS, confirmed to the Casper Star-Tribune that there was no equipment malfunction involved in the incident; Porter was simply rappelling when the fall occurred. His climbing partner, whose identity has not been disclosed, was left stranded but was later rescued with assistance from Devils Tower Lodge Climbing Guides and Buck Wild Climbing Guides.
While fatalities in climbing incidents at Devils Tower are rare, the NPS emphasizes that the activity remains “inherently dangerous.” Since climbing became popular at the landmark over a century ago, only seven deaths have been reported.
Describing the unique features of Devils Tower, the NPS states that it is “an astounding geologic feature that protrudes out of the prairie surrounding the Black Hills” and holds sacred significance for Northern Plains Indians and other indigenous peoples. The Tower’s numerous parallel cracks are particularly appealing to the rock climbing community; however, the NPS warns that it does not test or maintain anchors on the climbing routes.
In its safety guidelines, the NPS advises climbers that “the majority of climbing accidents and deaths on the Tower occur during the rappel.” It cautions climbers to inspect and back up anchors as necessary and to familiarize themselves with the location of their rappel routes prior to their climbs. Climbers are also encouraged to start rappels over the nose of columns to prevent ropes from jamming in cracks and to be mindful of loose rocks that could fall on others below. Additionally, climbers should know the distance of their planned rappel, as many require two ropes.
Related topics:
- Champions League Matchweek 1 Recap: Manchester City Stumbles Against Inter Milan
- USMNT Abroad: Highlights from the Week of Sept. 23
- New Outdoor Roller-Sport Facility Opens in Legacy Regional Park