On August 2, Junghyun “Jiji” Nam fell at the base of the Feather Buttress route (5.10+) on the north side of War Bonnet Peak, above the Cirque of the Towers. Nam and her climbing partner were gearing up to start the climb when she slipped and tumbled an estimated 80 to 100 feet down the steep approach route. She was helicoptered from the scene with serious injuries and several days later was removed from life support at the hospital.

ANALYSIS

The approaches to many climbs involve scrambling to a high belay ledge before the roped climbing begins. Careful movement is essential while preparing to tie in and anchor for the first pitch. In some cases, it may be prudent to put on harnesses and other gear before the final approach, to avoid these maneuvers on a small, exposed stance. It’s also a good idea to don one’s helmet before the final approach to alpine routes. (Source: The Editors.)