In a tragic incident near St. Mary's Glacier in Clear Creek County, Colorado, a hiker lost his life after falling from a ridge. The incident occurred on Thursday, prompting a swift response from the Alpine Rescue Team, a non-profit organization based in Evergreen.

According to spokesperson Jake Smith, the rescue team received a distress call around 2:20 p.m., alerting them that a man had fallen from a significant distance and was unresponsive. Immediately, a team of approximately 25 members was assembled to search for the unidentified hiker.

After reaching the hiker, the team sadly confirmed that he had passed away. The man had fallen halfway down a steep slope, ending up in a "cliffband." To recover the body, the team had to lower it approximately 300 feet down to the bottom of the slope, a process that took about four hours.

The circumstances leading to the fall remain unclear. Smith mentioned that the hiker was presumably on the ridge line, possibly hiking above where the incident occurred. It is believed that a large snow cornice may have played a role, either breaking off as the hiker approached the edge or misjudging the steepness of the slope while descending.

Smith noted that the hiker was equipped with micro spikes on his shoes to improve traction. However, these were deemed inadequate for the challenging terrain of the area. Further details surrounding the incident are yet to be determined.

This unfortunate event serves as a reminder of the dangers of hiking in treacherous terrains and the importance of being adequately prepared. The Alpine Rescue Team continues to provide assistance and support to those in need, showcasing their dedication to ensuring the safety of outdoor enthusiasts.

In light of this incident, hikers and outdoor enthusiasts are urged to remain vigilant, well-prepared, and informed about the conditions and risks associated with their chosen trails.