Hiker, dog airlifted after 30 feet rappel fall in Buckeyes Canyon
May 10, 2026, 1:30 PM
A 33‑year‑old man was airlifted from Buckeyes Canyon in the San Rafael Swell after falling 20–30 feet when his rappel anchor reportedly failed. He and his dog, who was strapped to his chest, suffered non‑life‑threatening injuries before being rescued. (Emery County's Sheriffs Office)
(Emery County's Sheriffs Office)
SALT LAKE CITY – A 33-year-old man was injured and airlifted out of Buckeyes Canyon after falling 20-30 feet while rappelling with his dog strapped to his chest, according to Emery County Search and Rescue.
Dispatchers received a call at approximately 2:30 p.m. of a fall and possible wrist and ankle injuries after the man fell while rappelling in Buckey’s Canyon in the San Rafael Swell on Saturday.
According to the man’s wife, another group had rappelled ahead of them and she had already descended the 20-30 foot drop when her husband began to rappel.
The bag‑anchor system reportedly failed, causing him to fall backward off the cliff. He was wearing a helmet and backpack, which he believed reduced the severity of his injuries.
The couple’s poodle, secured to the man’s chest in a dog harness, suffered a minor leg injury but appeared to be doing well.
The couple called down the canyon to alert the group ahead of them, who returned to help provide aid until rescuers arrived.
Classic Air and Medical, and a Utah Department of Public Safety helicopter responded first but were unable to land safely near the man. DPS crews then lowered an officer into the canyon and successfully airlifted the injured man. The helicopter later went back to retrieve his wife and dog.
Search and Rescue Commander Lee Magnuson thanked all agencies and responders for their teamwork in what he called a successful rescue operation.
