FALL ON SNOW

Wyoming, Tetons

On July 9 at 2 p.m., while attempting to climb up beside Spalding Falls to the top, Stacey Grode slipped on the snowslope and fell down into the moat of the falls. She came to rest between the snow and rock in the water. Park Ranger Jim Olson saw the incident happen and he and other Park visitors pulled Grode from the water. The Forest Service contract helicopter was dispatched, and was used to evacuate her. She was suffering from hypothermia and lacerations of the left knee, left lower leg, and left elbow. She also lost consciousness temporarily after she fell. She received first aid, and was coherent and conscious at Lupine Meadows. Grode was transported to St. Johns Hospital in Jackson. (Source: Jim Olson, Grand Teton National Park)

Analysis

While technically not a climbing accident, this description is yet another of several examples of its kind which occurred in different parts of the country. No ice axe or self-arrest indicated. (Source: J. Williamson)