Colorado—Rocky Mountain National Park (2)—Little Matterhorn

Publication Year: 1954.

Colorado—Rocky Mountain National Park (2)—Little Matterhorn: On 31 July 1953, a party of nine girls was ascending the Little Matterhorn. This organized group had almost reached the summit when Miss Kathryn Rees (15) became startled at the movement of a rock she had grasped for support. She lost her balance and fell approximately 150 ft. to her death. Two of the hiking counselors, Miss Gretchen DeGroot and Sandra Miller (17) went to get assistance. As they descended they became separated. Miss DeGroot reached the Fern Lake Lodge where she telegraphed for help. The body of Miss Miller was found as a rescue party was en route to the location of the Rees girl’s body. It is believed that Miss Miller slipped on a steep slope while hurrying to get help. There is no great exposure on this route up the Little Matterhorn and it is not considered a difficult or hazardous climb. Carelessness seems to be the main factor in these two fatalities.

Source: Rocky Mountain National Park Report.

There were four other minor accidents in this area which were not true mountaineering accidents and have not been included. Most of these accidents seem to have resulted from inexperienced persons not appreciating the dangers of snow and ice.