Basejumper Rescued After Crash Landing On Colorado’s Independence Pass
On Saturday, September 27th, 2025, at approximately 12:15 PM, Pitkin County Dispatch received an emergency text reporting a basejumper had crash-landed at the base of the Grotto Wall climbing area on Independence Pass. The individual was stranded roughly 200 feet above the parking area in a rugged, technical rocky terrain, prompting a swift response from local rescue teams.
According to Mountain Rescue Aspen (MRA), Aspen Ambulance was dispatched to the scene but was unable to reach the basejumper due to the challenging landscape. At 12:22 PM, MRA was notified and immediately mobilized members and specialized equipment to execute a guided line lowering operation. Several MRA members arrived at the trailhead to evaluate the terrain and determine the most effective method to safely extract the stranded basejumper.
A guided line system was promptly constructed, allowing rescuers to lower the individual to the waiting ambulance. The operation was completed with all 13 MRA members involved in the mission clearing the field by 3:00 PM.
Mountain Rescue Aspen and the Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office want to remind adventurers to understand the minimum operational parameters of their equipment and choose appropriate terrain. MRA also appreciates the communication and assistance of other climbers and bystanders in this operation.” – Mountain Rescue Aspen
Leave a Reply