On Saturday 8/21/20 at approx. 2040 Saguache County SAR requested Custer County SAR assume incident command for two climbers needing assistance on Crestone Needle. The climbers had summited Crestone Needle via the Ellingwood Arete. As they began their descent on the standard route, they realized that they had gone off-route and called SAR for guidance. Because they were well-prepared with food, clothing and survival gear, they were able to safely bivy for the night at 13,850′. At approx. 0600 on Sunday 8/22/21 the climbers attempted to regain the route but were unsuccessful. Three technical team members were then inserted into the field via Flight For Life. At approx. 1300, the team reached the two climbers. They were able to safely descend the standard route. Our team returned to the Barn at 2100. We extend our thanks to Flight For Life and Saguache County Search & Rescue for their assistance during this mission.
The preparedness of the climbers directly contributed to their own safety AND the safety of the rescue team. If you are planning to climb Crestone Needle, we STRONGLY advise thorough route planning especially on the descent.
