Wisconsin Man Fell While Descending, National Park Service Confirms
A 21-year-old climber from Wisconsin tragically died after falling from Devils Tower National Monument in Wyoming, park officials reported.
Stewart Phillip Porter, from Eau Claire, Wisconsin, was descending the monument late on Sunday, September 22, 2024, when the accident occurred. According to the National Park Service (NPS), he was rappelling the second pitch of the popular route, El Cracko Diablo, when the fall happened. The precise distance of his fall was not immediately disclosed.
Rescue Efforts and Discovery
Park rangers responded to the scene at approximately 8:40 p.m., and paramedics confirmed that Mr. Porter had died from severe injuries. In addition to locating Mr. Porter, a search team also found his climbing partner, who was stranded on the rock formation and required a rescue operation. Officials have not released the partner’s identity.
The cause of the fall remains under investigation. The NPS pointed out that many climbing accidents and fatalities at Devils Tower occur during the descent phase of a climb.
A Dangerous Descent: Climbing Accidents at Devils Tower
Devils Tower, a prominent natural structure rising over 870 feet, has long been a favorite destination for climbers from around the world. Despite its beauty and allure, it is known for its inherent risks. Park officials stated that Mr. Porter is the seventh climber to lose his life while scaling the monument. Of those fatalities, four occurred during descent, including Mr. Porter’s tragic accident.
The formation, which attracts 5,000 to 6,000 climbers each year, is especially challenging due to its numerous vertical cracks, which require technical climbing skills and equipment.
National Park Service Statement: Climbing Hazards
In the wake of the incident, the National Park Service emphasized the inherent dangers of climbing, even for experienced adventurers. A statement released by the park noted, “While climbing fatalities at Devils Tower are infrequent, it is still inherently dangerous.”
Tragedy Among Many: Deaths in National Parks
Mr. Porter’s death is part of a broader pattern of fatalities across the U.S. National Park system. Although climbing accidents remain relatively rare, falls are among the top causes of death in national parks, following vehicle accidents and drownings. Data collected by the NPS from 2014 to 2019 highlights the risks visitors face, particularly when undertaking challenging activities like rock climbing.
Remembering Stewart Phillip Porter
Friends and family of Stewart Phillip Porter have been left devastated by his untimely death. While little is known publicly about Mr. Porter’s climbing experience, he is remembered as an adventurous spirit who sought to explore the natural beauty of places like Devils Tower. Those who knew him described him as passionate about the outdoors and eager to take on new challenges.
What Is Devils Tower?
Devils Tower National Monument, located in northeastern Wyoming, is a striking geological feature and a sacred site for many Indigenous tribes in the region. Formed millions of years ago from volcanic activity, the tower consists of vertical cracks and columns that make it a prime destination for climbers. The monument has been protected as a national treasure since President Theodore Roosevelt designated it as the first U.S. national monument in 1906.
Aside from climbing, Devils Tower is popular for hiking, wildlife watching, and sightseeing. The surrounding area offers panoramic views of rolling hills and forested landscapes.
Safety Precautions for Climbers
The recent fatality has reignited discussions about the safety of climbing activities at Devils Tower and other national monuments. The National Park Service routinely issues guidelines for climbers, stressing the importance of proper equipment, technical training, and adherence to safety protocols.
In particular, the descent phase of climbing, which often involves rappelling, has proven especially perilous at Devils Tower. Experts advise climbers to double-check equipment, ensure proper anchors, and communicate effectively with their climbing partners before making their way down.
How Climbers Can Stay Safe
While climbing is a sport filled with thrill and adventure, safety must remain a top priority. For those planning a climb at Devils Tower or any other challenging destination, here are some key safety tips:
- Check Equipment Regularly: Ensure ropes, harnesses, and anchors are in good condition before and during the climb.
- Use Proper Anchors: Always use reliable and secure anchors, particularly during descents.
- Stay Focused: Climbers should remain focused and avoid distractions, especially when fatigue sets in.
- Communicate Clearly: Communication with climbing partners is essential for successful and safe navigation of difficult routes.
- Prepare for the Descent: Many accidents occur on the way down; climbers should take extra care and follow established protocols when rappelling.
The Climbing Community Responds
News of Mr. Porter’s death sent ripples through the climbing community, particularly those who have scaled Devils Tower or plan to in the future. Climbers and outdoor enthusiasts expressed their condolences on social media and forums, with many sharing their own experiences at the monument and emphasizing the need for heightened awareness of the risks involved.
“This is a tragedy for the entire climbing community,” wrote one climber on a popular forum. “We all know the risks, but it’s still heartbreaking when something like this happens.”
Others highlighted the importance of sharing safety information and supporting climbers of all experience levels in understanding the dangers associated with the sport.
Conclusion
The tragic death of Stewart Phillip Porter serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of rock climbing, particularly on challenging structures like Devils Tower National Monument. As the investigation into the incident continues, the National Park Service remains focused on educating climbers and visitors about safety precautions.
For climbers everywhere, the accident underscores the need for constant vigilance, even on familiar routes. While Devils Tower will continue to attract adventurers seeking to test their skills, the memory of those lost, like Mr. Porter, remains a somber reminder of the inherent risks.
In memory of Stewart Phillip Porter, his family has asked for privacy during this difficult time. Meanwhile, climbers from across the country are urged to prioritize safety and respect the powerful forces of nature that make destinations like Devils Tower both beautiful and perilous.
