62. Letting Go On The North Face

The Fine Line

The most famous North Face in the United States... a terrible accident... a daring helicopter rescue... and some important lessons learned about risk and what it means to move on from chasing your dream. In this next episode of The Fine Line, climber Jim Dahle explains how a fall on the North Face of the Grand Teton left him unconscious, with severe head, neck, and facial trauma. His partner, Christian Feinhauer, was left to treat his longtime friend and call for help from the Jenny Lake Rangers. Ken Kreis, a year-round Jenny Lake Ranger, discusses how the rescue unfolded into a helicopter mission, where the blades of the ship were just feet from the cliff face. The pilot that day was Jon Bourke, from Teton County Search & Rescue, underscoring the critical partnership between TCSAR and the Jenny Lake Rangers. As Dahle says, “Not all heroes were capes. Some of them wear harnesses.” You can learn more about the Jenny Lake Rangers and how you can support them at www.gtnpf.org/jenny-lake-rangers. Story and interview by Matt Hansen. Editing and sound by Melinda Binks. This story was recorded in the studios of KHOL 89.1 FM. Original artwork by Jen Reddy Ink. The Fine Line theme song is by Anne and Pete Sibley, with additional music provided by Ben Winship. This episode is sponsored by RoadhouseBrewery.com.