[Gallatin Media Center]

 

On June 5th, 2024, at 8:36PM Gallatin County 911 Dispatch received a call from a group of rafters who had flipped their raft just south of “House Rock” on the Gallatin River, downstream from the Lava Lake trailhead on Highway 191. After the capsize, two of the party had made their way to the eastern bank of the river away from the highway and were stranded.  GCSSAR Volunteers from the Valley and Big Sky teams as well as Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office Deputies responded to the scene.

The group of four rafters had successfully completed one run of the “Mad Mile” (a whitewater section of the Gallatin River) and decided to make a second run.  The second trip through the rapids began around 8:00 PM, and the group’s raft capsized shortly after navigating the “House Rock” rapids.  Two individuals made their way safely to the western shore, but two others found their way to the eastern shore and were stranded by fast-running water and the fact that they had lost their shoes in the river.

A team of three GSSAR volunteers made their way downstream on the east bank of the river from a bridge near Lava Lake trailhead.  The team met the stranded rafters, conducted medical evaluations, provided them with shoes, and guided them out to safety.

Sherrif Dan Springer would like to remind whitewater enthusiasts that early season waters can be more turbulent and difficult to navigate.  Whenever possible, it is beneficial to scout your intended float, noting hazards as well as possible escape/extraction routes.  Always wear a personal flotation device, and a helmet.  Finally, (as much as the river allows), have clothing and supplies appropriate not just for the float itself, but for self-extraction by land or a possibly long wait on the riverbank for rescue.

 

View online at:  http://35.90.10.175/

 

 

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MSG: 10786 June 6, 2024 10:49