Seattle climber recounts survival after 400-foot fall in North Cascades accident

Anton Tselykh, a 38-year-old climber from Seattle, survived a 400-foot fall while rappelling down Early Winter North Spire in the North Cascades. He and three companions decided to descend due to worsening weather conditions when an anchor failure occurred, leading to their fall. Tselykh confirmed that the group was using a piton left by previous climbers, which contributed to the tragedy. After regaining consciousness following the fall, he navigated approximately 1,000 feet down the mountain and hiked 3/4 of a mile to his vehicle. Tselykh then drove over 40 miles to Newhalem to find a payphone and call for help, a process that took him about eight hours.

Despite suffering from head trauma and internal bleeding, he is hospitalized in satisfactory condition. Experts emphasized the risks associated with challenging climbs, especially during inclement weather. The North Cascades Highway had recently opened, making the area more accessible for climbers.