Editor's note: This updates with additional information from the National Park Service.
The body has been recovered of a man who disappeared this week on the highest mountain in North America.
Alex Chui, a 41-year-old from Washington, was found dead Wednesday morning in Denali National Park and Preserve, according to a news release. His body was transferred to the state medical examiner.
Weather previously hampered the search for Chui, who was ski mountaineering Monday with two other people when he fell at a location known as Squirrel Point. Ski mountaineering involves a combination of climbing mountains on skis and on foot.
Those who witnessed Chui fall lowered themselves over the edge as far as possible but could not see or hear him. They then proceeded down the West Buttress route for additional help.
High winds and snow kept searchers from accessing the accident site until early Wednesday morning, when two rangers were able to get in via helicopter.
Chui was un-roped, according to the park service. An un-roped French mountaineer fell to his death near the same spot in 2010. His body was never recovered.
The busiest part of the Denali climbing season generally runs from late May to late June. Climbers must apply for a special use permit, and the park service says they should be self sufficient and highly experienced before attempting an ascent. There were 500 registered climbers on the mountain as of Wednesday.
The mountain was recently federally designated as Mount McKinley, a move opposed by Alaska state lawmakers.
Stories about:
Story Categories:
A copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.
Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:
- Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
- Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
- Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
- North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
- Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
- Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
- Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.
National parks and their natural resources belong to you. The National Parks Traveler works to ensure you know how these essential places are being cared for.
Sign Up For Our Weekly Newsletter
Unsubscribe at any time.
INN Member
The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.
Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.
Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks.
You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.
