A tragic accident has claimed the life of a hiker in the upper Squamish Valley area of British Columbia. The incident occurred at Crooked Falls, a popular yet rugged hiking spot located along the Sigurd Trail, known for its steep paths and scenic views.
Local authorities confirmed that the hiker slipped and fell into the waterfall on Thursday evening. Members of the Sea-to-Sky RCMP and Squamish Search and Rescue (SAR) responded to the emergency call shortly after the fall was reported.
When rescue teams arrived, they found that the hiker had not survived the fall. The challenging landscape, combined with the quickly fading daylight, made it unsafe to recover the body immediately. As a result, officials made the difficult decision to pause the operation until the following morning.
On Friday, recovery crews returned to the scene. Working in tough conditions, they successfully retrieved the hiker’s body from the area surrounding the falls.
The British Columbia Coroners Service is now investigating the death. Officials have stated that foul play is not suspected. Early reports suggest the death was accidental, though the coroner will determine the official cause.
Police have not released the identity of the deceased, pending notification of the family. They did confirm, however, that the victim was an adult who had been hiking alone at the time of the incident.
Crooked Falls is a remote and physically demanding trail that draws experienced hikers seeking a challenge. It features sharp inclines, rocky paths, and narrow ledges that require caution, especially in wet or slippery conditions. Although the trail offers stunning views of the cascading waterfall, it is not recommended for beginners or those unfamiliar with rugged backcountry hiking.
Officials are reminding hikers to take extra care when exploring high-risk areas like Crooked Falls. Proper gear, weather checks, and notifying someone of your hiking plans can help prevent tragedies. Hiking with a companion and avoiding dangerous spots near the edges of cliffs or waterfalls is strongly advised.
Constable Kelly Wu of the Sea-to-Sky RCMP expressed condolences to the family and thanked the search and rescue teams for their support.
“We extend our sincere condolences to the family and friends of the deceased during this difficult time,” said Wu. “We would also like to thank Squamish Search and Rescue for their dedication and efforts during this tragic event.”
Squamish Search and Rescue is a volunteer organization made up of trained personnel who often operate in difficult and dangerous terrain. Their efforts play a vital role in ensuring public safety in the mountainous regions surrounding Squamish.
This incident adds to growing concerns about hiking safety in British Columbia, especially during the summer months when trail use is at its highest. Local authorities are urging outdoor enthusiasts to plan ahead, know their limits, and be aware of their surroundings.
Visitors to areas like Squamish Valley are encouraged to stay on marked trails and to pay attention to warning signs and changing weather conditions. Rain or mist can make rocks slippery and trails harder to navigate.
As the investigation continues, the community is mourning the loss of a life that ended too soon. Officials have not provided further updates but confirmed that they are in contact with the victim’s family and will release more information as appropriate.
The tragic fall at Crooked Falls is a somber reminder of the risks that can come with outdoor adventures. While the beauty of British Columbia’s wilderness draws many to explore, safety must always come first.
