This footage was filmed and produced 29 January 2024.

A group of experienced mountaineers found themselves facing a harrowing situation during a climbing excursion at Happy Hour Crag, near Gateway Natural Area in Colorado. A female climber was struck by a large boulder that dislodged from above, causing her serious injuries and requiring a complex and daring rescue operation by first responders.

Despite sustaining injuries during the rockfall, the brave woman managed to maintain control of the rope, potentially saving the life of a fellow climber. The group worked together to secure the rope and safely lower the injured climber, while another member raced to find signal to call for help.

Rescue crews arrived at the scene and quickly assessed the challenging terrain, determining that a high-angle rope rescue would be necessary to extract the injured climber. Paramedics climbed the cliff to provide immediate medical care as the woman's condition began to deteriorate.

Using a combination of ropes and technical expertise, rescue teams were able to secure the woman in a litter and carefully lower her down the mountain. She was then airlifted by a LifeLine helicopter to the Medical Center of the Rockies for critical care.

The coordinated efforts of all involved, including the victim's climbing equipment, the quick actions of her companions, and the rapid response of first responders, were instrumental in achieving a successful outcome. The entire rescue mission, which typically takes longer in such extreme conditions, was completed in approximately four hours.

The Larimer County Sheriff's Office commended the seamless teamwork and expressed gratitude to everyone involved in the challenging but ultimately successful rescue operation. The woman is now on the road to recovery, thanks to the courageous efforts and swift action of all those who played a role in her rescue.