David Cifaldi assessed his injury, contacted rescuers and descended about 5,000 feet with help from two friends.
BILLINGS, Mont. — A Montana nurse hiked about 10 miles through rugged mountain terrain after falling onto a trekking pole that pierced his side during an attempt to climb the state’s highest peak.
David Cifaldi, 32, was approaching Granite Peak with friends Jesse Ross and Brad Reich on July 20 when he slipped on rocks on the Froze-to-Death Plateau. One of his steel-tipped trekking poles passed through the flesh beneath his left arm and protruded from his back. The pole missed vital organs, according to accounts from Cifaldi and his medical team.
Cifaldi, a wound-care nurse in Billings, said his medical training helped him remain calm and evaluate his condition. He was alert, could breathe deeply and saw little bleeding. Because the pole appeared stable and the wound did not seem to enter his chest, he concluded that he could begin moving toward help while his friends watched closely for any change.
The group contacted local authorities with a satellite communication device before starting down. Their message allowed search-and-rescue officials to track the hikers’ progress and remain available if Cifaldi’s condition worsened. The friends then retraced an unmarked route across boulders, snowfields and steep backcountry terrain.
The descent lasted more than six hours and covered roughly 10 miles. The hikers also lost about 5,000 feet in elevation before reaching the trailhead. Ross walked with Cifaldi while monitoring the injury, and the group moved carefully to keep the pole from shifting.
Stillwater County Search and Rescue commander Ty Williams said officials received the first report at 9:44 a.m. The hikers later advised dispatchers that they were nearing the trailhead and asked that the closest medical facility be told they were coming. Officials did not force an evacuation because Cifaldi was alert, declined assistance and did not pose a danger to anyone else.
The group reached Ross’ vehicle at about 3:30 p.m. and drove to a nearby clinic. Medical workers there determined that Cifaldi needed more advanced care, so his friends continued to St. Vincent Regional Hospital in Billings, where he worked.
Doctors removed the pole and treated the wound. Cifaldi later returned to work, saying he understood how fortunate he had been. He said the decision to hike out depended on his stable condition, his medical knowledge, the experience of his companions and their ability to contact rescuers throughout the descent.
The group had hoped to reach the summit of Granite Peak, which rises about 12,800 feet in the Beartooth Mountains. The peak is known for difficult approaches, exposed rock and fast-changing weather. Cifaldi and his friends have said they hope to return after he fully recovers.
Author note: Last updated July 31, 2026.