Hiker rescued from PCT after sliding 100 feet near Kendall Katwalk

TO A hiker was rescued from the PCT in northern Washington Saturday afternoon after sliding nearly 100 feet on a steep stretch of snow. The incident occurred near, but not directly, the Kendall Katwalk, a famous 450-foot stretch of trail in the Snoqalmie Pass area (mile 2396) that consists of a narrow path cut from the side of a steep rock face.

in a Press releaseKing County Explorer Search and Rescue said passing hikers helped the hiker, a woman in her 60s, back onto the trail and provided initial assistance and warm-ups. She had suffered several significant injuries and was unable to make the 4.5 mile trip to the trailhead alone.

SAR teams from multiple organizations reached her location, stabilized her injury, and transported her off the field in a lengthy operation that concluded around 10 p.m., approximately eight hours after the initial fall. King County ESAR said in its news release that rescuers had to deal with several downed trees and stream crossings along the road, which slowed their progress. The organization thanked Seattle Mountain Rescue, SPART, King County Incident Support Team, and King County 4×4 Search and Rescue for partnering with them on the mission.

SAR officials also reminded hikers that snow can linger into early summer on Washington’s shady slopes and urged everyone to carry traction devices such as microspikes, as well as the 10 Essentials. If you encounter a snow slope that you don’t feel prepared to traverse safely, the organization recommends, back away. Search and Rescue is a free service in Washington.

Featured image: Kings County Explorer Search and Rescue

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