Climber Dies After Steep Fall on Mount Hood
A climber has died on Mount Hood. The fall occurred Sunday, January 25, 2026. Witnesses reported the fall near the Devil’s Kitchen area. This is a known technical route. The Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office is investigating. First responders rushed to the scene. They found the climber deceased. Portland Mountain Rescue assisted. American Medical Response’s Reach and Treat Team also helped. The recovery mission concluded Sunday night. The climber’s name is being withheld. Family notifications are ongoing.
Mount Hood is a popular climbing destination in oregon. It is also a dangerous one. Many climbers attempt to summit the mountain each year. Sadly, not all of them return. Records show over 130 deaths on Mount Hood since documentation began. These incidents often involve falls. They can also result from avalanches or extreme weather. In 1986, seven students and two teachers died. They were caught in a storm. More recently, in 2020, a climber died. This was after falling into a crevasse. Another climber fell 500 feet in 2021. They also died from injuries.
The Devil’s Kitchen area is a challenging part of Mount Hood. It is known for fumaroles. These vents release toxic gases. Climbing there requires skill and caution. Weather on Mount Hood can change rapidly. Sudden winds and poor visibility are common. Temperatures can drop drastically. This creates hazardous conditions. Experienced climbers know these risks. They must always be prepared. Safety is paramount on any climb.
Past Incidents on Mount Hood
Mount Hood has a history of climbing accidents. These incidents serve as stark reminders. They highlight the mountain’s inherent dangers. In 2022, two climbers fell. One died. The other suffered critical injuries. In 2018, a climber fell. They fell between 700 to 1,000 feet. This incident led to multiple rescues. It involved fallen ice and rock. The news of such events impacts the climbing community. It reinforces the need for preparedness.
Rescue Operations
Rescue efforts on Mount Hood are complex. They often involve multiple agencies. Portland Mountain Rescue is a key organization. They are a volunteer search and rescue group. They focus on Mount Hood frequently. The Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office coordinates many missions. American Medical Response (AMR) also plays a vital role. Their Reach and Treat (RAT) Team assists. These teams use specialized equipment. They navigate difficult terrain. Their goal is always to save lives. However, recovery missions are sometimes necessary.
Mountain Conditions
Climbing Mount Hood requires careful planning. The official climbing season typically runs from April to July. However, winter ascents are also common. Conditions can vary greatly. Reports from January 9, 2026, noted the mountain held snow. However, the snowpack was still building. It warned of rapidly changing winter weather. Winter alpine objectives demand skill. Using avalanche and weather forecasts is crucial. Climbers must adapt to changing conditions. They should always be ready to turn back. Safety should never be compromised.
This is a developing story. More details may emerge. This tragic editorial note underscores the risks. They are ever-present on Mount Hood.
