UTAH COUNTY, Utah — Two people were injured, one seriously, by falling ice while visiting the popular Bridal Veil Falls in Provo Canyon on Monday.
The Utah County Sheriff's Office and North Fork Fire Department said the large blocks of ice that fell on the visitors were from the actual falls.
The sheriff's office and the fire department responded to the scene and immediately began triage operations on the 26-year-old man from Utah who was experiencing back pain. Once stabilized, the man was airlifted off the mountain by helicopter and transported to a nearby trauma center.
Video below shows rescue crews hoisting injured man from Bridal Veil Falls:
Due to its easy access up Provo Canyon and beauty, Bridal Veil Falls is a popular spot for residents and tourists aiming to get a look at some of Utah's natural wonders.
As temperatures rise across northern Utah, officials warned visitors that the ice and snow won't be melted for a while longer and urge everyone to be aware while in higher elevations and to stay away from ice flows.
“It cracks where it wants to crack and goes where it wants to go," explained Sgt. Dallin Turner with Utah County Sheriff Office Search and Rescue. "We can’t predict when and how it’s going to happen.”
Those who regularly visit and hike the area around the falls say preparation is key, with extra batteries, blankets and an emergency poncho deemed almost necessary.
“You have to pay attention to avalanches. You have to pay attention to what is going on around you because it can be fun or not if you’re not prepared,” said hiker Gordon Bethers.
Helicopter lands at Bridal Veil Falls following rescue of injured man:
No matter how experienced of a hiker those who visit the falls may be, everyone should be aware that a closer view can put anyone in a bad spot.
"The safest thing you can do is to stay on that trail and stay on there instead of trying to get up closer," said Turner.
The condition of the other person struck by the ice was not made available.
"The quick response of all of these agencies to help this injured man get to treatment is awesome!" the sheriff's office posted to social media.
