Big Cottonwood Canyon hiker falls 400 feet to his death
Jun 17, 2021, 3:45 PM | Updated: 4:32 pm
Stock photo courtesy of Deseret News
SALT LAKE CITY — Search-and-rescue teams from Salt Lake County have recovered the body of a Big Cottonwood Canyon hiker who fell to his death Wednesday.
The hiker was identified as Jed Homer, 68, of Sandy.
Homer and a friend were hiking down from the summit of Mount Raymond in the Butler Fork area of Big Cottonwood Canyon when Homer slipped and fell approximately 400 feet down a steep slope, according to a statement.
Sgt. Melody Cutler said the man’s hiking partner was able to climb down to his friend and found that he had suffered severe head trauma in the fall.
Salt Lake County Search and Rescue was called to assist Unified Police Canyon Units in the recovery of the man’s body from Big Cottonwood Canyon. The surviving party was helped off the mountain by a Department of Public Safety helicopter.
Sgt. Cutler said that both men were experienced hikers.
Salt Lake County Search and Rescue provides many tips for keeping safe while recreating outdoors in Utah. Having the right equipment, being aware and honest about your physical condition and knowing what to expect from the weather on hiking day are just a few of the suggestions.
Hikers and climbers should be able to rescue themselves if need be, by knowing the terrain, having the proper gear and knowing basic first aid.
