NewsABC Action News (WFTS) — NewsJuly 30, 2026United States
Hiker chooses self-rescue over helicopter transport to avoid costs
A Montana nurse who was impaled by a trekking pole while hiking Granite Peak chose to hike 10 miles to safety rather than request a helicopter rescue. He cited the potential high cost of air transport as a primary factor in his decision to self-rescue with the help of his companions.
Read the full story at ABC Action News (WFTS) — NewsWhy It Matters
The incident highlights the financial considerations that influence emergency medical decisions for individuals in remote areas, where air rescue services can incur significant out-of-pocket expenses.
Key Facts
- David Cifaldi was impaled by a 44-inch trekking pole while hiking Granite Peak on July 20.
- The group contacted Stillwater County Search and Rescue via a Garmin inReach device at 9:44 a.m. to inform them of their intent to self-rescue.
- Cifaldi cited the high cost of helicopter rescue as a primary reason for choosing to hike out.
- The group traveled approximately 10 miles and descended 5,000 feet over six hours to reach a vehicle.
- Search and rescue teams monitored the group's progress but did not intervene, citing the hiker's right to refuse assistance.
- Cifaldi was treated at a local clinic before being transported to St. Vincent Regional Hospital in Billings for pole removal.
- Cifaldi returned to work at the hospital the following week.
- Granite Peak reaches an elevation of 12,800 feet and is known for unpredictable weather.
- A 65-year-old climber died on Granite Peak in 2019 after a 150-foot fall.
Who's Mentioned
locationGranite Peak“Montana's highest peak where the incident occurred.”organizationStillwater County Search and Rescue“The local search and rescue team that monitored the hikers' progress.”organizationSt. Vincent Regional Hospital“The hospital where Cifaldi works and received treatment.”personJesse Ross“Cifaldi's hiking companion who provided support and transportation.”personTy Williams“Stillwater County Search and Rescue team commander.”personDavid Cifaldi“The hiker who was impaled by a trekking pole and chose to self-rescue.”