Distressed hiker rescued from East Maroon Trail in Pitkin County

A hiker suffering from heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and weakness was rescued from East Maroon Trail southwest Aspen on Tuesday afternoon, according to a Pitkin County alert.

At 2:57 p.m. Tuesday, Pitkin County Regional Emergency Dispatch Center received the distress call reporting the hiker was in need of medical attention. The hiker was located about four miles up the trail.

In response, the Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office promptly requested assistance from Mountain Rescue Aspen (MRA). By 3:55 p.m., MRA had mobilized their resources, and CareFlight of the Rockies dispatched a helicopter to expedite the rescue mission, the alert states.

“At around 5 p.m., the CareFlight helicopter reached the ailing hiker, swiftly transporting them to Aspen Valley Hospital for urgent medical care,” the alert states. “Meanwhile, MRA members ensured the safety of the remaining hikers, guiding them back to the trailhead. By approximately 7:30 p.m., all rescuers had safely exited the field.”

The Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude to CareFlight of the Rockies and the dedicated volunteers of Mountain Rescue Aspen for their invaluable efforts, the alert states. 

“In light of this incident, the Sheriff’s Office and MRA issued a poignant reminder to all backcountry adventurers, that rescues in remote areas can be fraught with delays and challenges,” the alert states. “They urge visitors to carry reliable communication devices and possess basic first aid knowledge to better navigate emergencies that may arise in these beautiful yet unpredictable landscapes.”