Grand Teton National Park. Katie Lozancich photo.
A hiker sustained a 1,200-foot fall Grand Teton National Park on Tuesday, prompting a helicopter rescue. The individual, identified as 35-year-old Jarek Strzalkowski of Poland, who lives in Minnesota, lost his footing and fell over snow and rock on the east side of Paintbrush Divide. His hiking partner was able to reach cell service to place a 911 call.
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Three GTNP Rangers were flown in via helicopter, stabilized the injured hiker, and short-hauled him to Lupine Meadows trailhead. He was then transported to Idaho Falls for medical care.
GTNP officials remind anyone hiking in the park that elevations above 9,000 feet are still snow-covered. Anyone going above those elevations should carry both an ice axe and crampons and know how to use them.
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stash member Max Ritter
I manage digital content here at TGR, run our gear testing program, and am stoked to be living the dream in the Tetons.