An experienced American climber took a fall on Louise Falls, Tuesday (Jan. 17), severely injuring an ankle in the fall.
An experienced American climber took a fall on Louise Falls, Tuesday (Jan. 17), severely injuring an ankle in the fall.
The man, in his mid-30s, was lead climber on the popular route when he fell about eight metres from near the top of the approximately 110-metre climb about 2 p.m.
“He fell about eight metres and he struck a lower angle terrain feature and seriously hurt his ankle,” said Tania Peters, a spokesperson for Parks Canada’s rescue team.
“They were able to lower themselves to the base of the climb, and then a separate group of climbers called in the rescue.”
Louise Falls is one of the most accessible and popular ice climbs in Banff National Park.
Two Parks Canada rescuers flew to the scene with Alpine Helicopters and used a helicopter sling to move the injured climber from the base of the climb to the Upper Lake Louise parking lot, where they were met by Banff EMS.
Peters said this incident highlights the need to be well prepared, including carrying a cell phone or SPOT device, depending on where you are in the park.
“These people were really well experienced, but it shows no matter your experience level, there’s always a risk associated with recreating in the backcountry and mountain national park,” she said.
“These guys didn’t do anything wrong, but there are always things you can do to check your safety.”
