In a tragic turn of events on the icy cliffs of Denali National Park in Alaska, seasoned climber and New York forest ranger Robbi Mecus lost her life. The accident occurred on Thursday night, April 25, 2024, as Mecus and her climbing partner, who were roped together, navigated the notoriously perilous route known as “the Escalator” on Mount Johnson. The park is known for its breathtaking beauty and formidable challenges. It is about 240 miles north of Anchorage, Alaska, and attracts climbers worldwide who seek to test their limits against its rugged terrain.
Robbi Mecus, 52, a transgender woman from Keene Valley, New York, was an experienced ice climber and a well-regarded figure in both the environmental and LGBTQ+ communities. Her climbing partner, a 30-year-old woman from California, survived the ordeal but sustained severe injuries and had to be airlifted to safety the following morning. Other climbers who saw the fall called for help and constructed an ice cave so the surviving woman would be somewhat protected from the cold. Mecus’ body was only recovered on Saturday after rescuers had to stop on Friday because of bad conditions.
Mecus’s tragic fall over 1,000 feet is not only a loss to her immediate family but also resonates deeply within the communities she was part of. For 25 years, she served as a forest ranger for the Department of Environmental Conservation’s Adirondack region, having joined the agency at the age of 27. Over the years, she became known for her contributions to rescue operations and her efforts in advancing diversity and inclusion within the agency.
The interim DEC Commissioner Sean Mahar expressed profound sorrow over the loss, describing Mecus as someone who “exemplified the Forest Rangers’ high standard of professional excellence.” Mahar also highlighted her significant work promoting LGBTQ belonging and diversity within the environmental sector.
Mecus’s dedication to environmental conservation and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights were well recognized. She had previously shared the struggles of her own journey with her gender identity, noting the lack of visible queer or trans role models in her field as a barrier she faced. Yet, she overcame these challenges, becoming a symbol of courage and a leader for many in similar situations.
The precise cause of the accident is still unclear, but climbers are well aware of the dangers of “the Escalator” route. It involves a treacherous mix of steep rock, ice, and snow over an approximately 5,000-foot ascent. Park officials continuously warn climbers about the risks associated with such climbs, emphasizing the need for extreme caution.
According to her social media account, Mecus has traveled to Alaska for multiple expeditions over the years and successfully climbed “the Escalator” last year.
She is survived by her daughter and former wife, who reside in Keene Valley. Her commitment to her professional duties and community endeavors leaves a legacy that many will remember.
