Colorado hiker’s body found on Mount Sneffels

On June 11, rescuers discovered the body of a Colorado local on 14,158-foot-high Mount Sneffels. According to information released this week by the Ouray County coroner, authorities believe the pedestrian, identified as Brett Brockman-Goldstein, 32, of Montrose, had died a day before his remains were found.

Although details are scant, the Ouray County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the death is currently under investigation. Sergeant Derrick Linnell said backpacker The office will release more information once the autopsy is completed.

“The cause and manner of death are pending the results of an autopsy and toxicology, which are standard procedures in cases involving traumatic deaths,” a June 16 press release from the Ouray County Coroner said.

It is the first report of one of the 14 deaths among Colorado residents this year. However, deaths are not uncommon on the state’s high peaks. In 2025, Backpacker covered the death of Von Fritz, 57, of Durango, on Blanca Peak (14,345 feet) in the Sangre de Cristo Range. While descending, the lone climber fell and sustained serious injuries.

Also in 2025, the remains of 66-year-old Debra Stith were discovered near Chase Lake below Longs Peak. according to colorado sunRescuers said she probably fell while climbing the steep slopes near the lake.

Although the cause of this month’s incident is still unclear, land managers have stressed how important it is to practice safety when hiking 14ers, or any other alpine objective – especially when going alone. Tell someone where you are going, and when you should be expected to return. Carry an emergency GPS or satellite communications device that allows you to call for help. If weather conditions become severe and there is a threat of lightning, try to descend from the alpine area or seek shelter as quickly as possible.