In an unexpected turn of events on Montana’s Froze-to-Death Plateau, David Cifaldi faced a dangerous situation while hiking. As he and his companions neared Granite Peak, the state’s tallest mountain, he slipped, resulting in a trekking pole piercing through his body. The steel-tipped pole, measuring 44 inches, entered below his left arm and exited through his back, missing vital organs.
Despite the serious nature of the injury, Cifaldi, a 32-year-old nurse specializing in wound care, maintained his composure. After assessing his injury—finding minimal pain and blood, and noting the pole’s stability—he decided on a self-rescue rather than a costly helicopter evacuation.
The group, using a Garmin inReach satellite device, informed authorities of their self-rescue plan. Over six strenuous hours and a 10-mile descent, they navigated unmarked routes, boulders, and snowfields, reaching a trailhead where Cifaldi’s friend had parked a vehicle. Jesse Ross, one of Cifaldi’s companions, acknowledged Cifaldi’s confidence and medical expertise as key factors in their decision to proceed independently.
Granite Peak, standing at 12,800 feet, sees many climbers annually, but its unpredictable weather poses challenges. In 2019, a 65-year-old climber tragically fell to his death near the summit. Cifaldi’s self-rescue adds to the mountain’s many stories.
Stillwater County Search and Rescue, led by Ty Williams, monitored the group’s progress. At no point did Cifaldi want external assistance, and the team respected his decision. The group reached Ross’ vehicle by 3:30 p.m. and headed to the nearest clinic, which referred them to St. Vincent Regional Hospital in Billings for advanced treatment. Doctors there successfully removed the pole.
Reflecting on the ordeal, Cifaldi expressed confidence in his choice to self-rescue. He acknowledged the support from his friends and the ability to contact search and rescue if needed. “Search and rescue coming to help you is free. The flight’s not,” Cifaldi noted, emphasizing considerations that influenced his decision.