Rock Climber Stranded 500 Feet Up Cliff After Scaling It Without a Rope

A rock climber’s solo adventure in New Hampshire took a frightening turn Sunday morning when he found himself stranded 500 feet above the ground, unable to safely climb any higher or make his way back down.

William Carron, 30, of Portland, Maine, was climbing Whitehorse Ledge near North Conway on October 25 when his outing turned into a mountain rescue operation.

According to New Hampshire Fish and Game, Carron was attempting a climbing route known as Sliding Board without being roped in when he reached a section of the massive granite cliff that left him unwilling to continue in either direction.

With hundreds of feet separating him from the ground, Carron managed to reach a spot where he felt secure enough to stop and call for help.

The emergency call came shortly after 8 a.m., prompting a response from New Hampshire Fish and Game, North Conway Fire and Rescue, and the Mountain Rescue Service.

Nine specially trained volunteer climbers began making their way up the rock face to reach the stranded man. Once they reached Carron, rescuers secured him and set up a rope system that would allow everyone to descend safely.

The operation ended successfully shortly before 10 a.m., when Carron and all nine rescuers returned to the ground.

The dramatic rescue highlighted the dangerous situations that can unfold when climbers venture onto challenging mountain terrain without rope protection.

Mountain Rescue Service is a volunteer organization whose members train for difficult technical rescues throughout New Hampshire, often responding to emergencies in rugged locations that ordinary rescue crews cannot easily reach.

Following the incident, Fish and Game reminded outdoor enthusiasts about the state’s voluntary Hike Safe card program, which helps fund search-and-rescue operations.

The cards cost $25 for individuals or $35 for families and provide protection against certain rescue expenses. Under New Hampshire law, people found negligent may be required to reimburse the state for rescue costs, although cardholders generally receive an exemption. Reckless conduct can still result in charges.

Officials did not say whether Carron had a Hike Safe card or whether he would face any rescue-related expenses.

What began as a solo climb ended with nine rescuers scaling the same cliff to bring him safely back to solid ground.