UTAH COUNTY — Two rock climbers became stranded while descending down a cliff in American Fork Canyon Sunday afternoon.
The climbers were on a cliff face near the Alpine Loop area, which is a popular site especially during the time of changing leaf colors. They climbed up without any trouble, but as they rappelled down, one of their ropes had a knot that prevented them from descending. The Utah County Sheriff's Office said this happened shortly before 5 p.m.
They were able to get service to call 911, and a "heavy technical rescue team" was sent out to retrieve them.
Neither of the climbers were injured.
Sgt. Spencer Cannon pointed out that the area requires a high level of climbing skill, and the volunteers sent to rescue them have to have that skill level, plus be able to anchor themselves at the site of the stranded climbers and connect them to their own equipment.
By around 8:30 p.m., both climbers were safely back on the ground thanks to the rescue teams.
The climbers, Samee Lystrup and Jake Mortenson, agreed to an interview with FOX 13 News after their rescue. Watch below:
Stay with FOX 13 News for updates on this developing story.
