Stranded, Climbing Alone, Inadequate Equipment, Inexperience, Alberta, Rocky Mountains, Mount Temple
STRANDED, CLIMBING ALONE, INADEQUATE EQUIPMENT, INEXPERIENCE
Alberta, Rocky Mountains, Mount Temple
On August 29, 1981, R. set off following the guidebook description for the east-southeast ridge of Mount Temple. He travelled too far east along the access trail and started up the wrong cirque; he then climbed upward and onto the ridge. He ascended a small overhang and continued upward until he encountered a wall. Unable to proceed or retreat, he spent a cold night as he was prepared for only a day climb. His absence was detected in a routine check of registrations. He was located by helicopter and evacuated. (Source: C. Israelson, Banff National Park)
Analysis
The victim was inexperienced, totally unequipped and alone. He discovered that it is easier to climb up than to retreat; without a rappel rope, he was stuck. (Source: C. Israelson, Banff National Park)