Iowa Woman, 73, Dies After Fall on Highline Trail in Glacier National Park

GLACIER NATIONAL PARK, Montana — A 73-year-old woman from Muscatine, Iowa died Wednesday after a fatal fall while hiking on the Highline Trail in Glacier National Park, park officials confirmed.

The Incident on Highline Trail

The hiker, identified as Diane Bunker, was walking with a large group when she tripped and fell off the trail around 11 a.m. between Big Bend and Triple Arches, according to a news release from the park.

She fell roughly 450 feet and sustained traumatic injuries. Her companions lost sight of her immediately after the fall and called for help.

Emergency Response

Park rangers quickly closed the Going-to-the-Sun Road from Logan Pass to Big Bend for about an hour while rescue crews responded.

Two Bear Air, a specialized search and rescue helicopter, located Bunker’s body below the trail and completed the recovery operation. She was later transferred to the Flathead County Coroner.

Investigation and Park Response

An investigation into the fall is ongoing. Glacier National Park officials expressed gratitude to first responders and urged the public to respect the privacy of Bunker’s family during this time.

Highline Trail Safety

The Highline Trail is one of Glacier National Park’s most popular but also most dangerous routes. Known for its steep drop-offs and breathtaking views, it runs along the Garden Wall and requires hikers to navigate narrow paths with sheer cliffs.

Park officials routinely advise hikers to exercise extreme caution, wear proper footwear, and stay alert while traversing the trail.

The tragic loss of Diane Bunker is a reminder of the risks that come with high-altitude hiking. Glacier officials say they will continue reviewing safety measures along the Highline Trail as the investigation moves forward.

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