Hiker dies as bystanders give him CPR on popular Colorado hike, officials say
Bystanders rushed to help a 64-year-old hiker from Oregon as he experienced a medical crisis while on a popular incline hike in Colorado, officials said.
Bystanders called 911 and gave the hiker CPR on the Manitou Incline until first responders arrived, the city of Manitou Springs said in an April 15 post on Facebook.
Fire and police officials arrived and found the man unresponsive, the city said. He was later pronounced dead.
The cause of death is not yet known and officials are investigating the incident, officials said.
Manitou Springs Fire Chief Keith Buckmiller praised the bystanders who tried to help.
“We thank the bystanders who quickly intervened and attempted CPR,” he said in the post. “Their immediate actions are commendable and reflect the compassion of our community.”
While the Manitou Incline is popular and draws visitors from around the country, it’s also quite strenuous, officials said.
“City officials remind all climbers, especially those traveling from out of state, to thoroughly assess their physical condition, understand the difficulty of the climb, and come properly prepared,” the city said. “The Incline gains over 2,000 feet of elevation in under one mile, making it a physically demanding route that should not be underestimated.”
The climb is about a 6-mile drive west from Colorado Springs, which manages the hiking destination.
This story was originally published April 16, 2025 at 5:21 PM with the headline "Hiker dies as bystanders give him CPR on popular Colorado hike, officials say."
