Two people die while exploring Banff National Park this week

RCMP officials reported that a 24-year-old climber vanished while attempting a solo climb of Recondite Peak on September 7 and was found deceased by Parks Canada specialists on September 9. The climber was described as experienced in backcountry travel. A separate incident involved a 33-year-old Calgary man who separated from three friends near Devil's Thumb and the Big Beehive; his disappearance was reported the same afternoon and rescue teams later confirmed his death. The two fatalities add to a summer tally of seven hiking-related deaths in Banff and Kananaskis Country, prompting officials to urge better planning, trail awareness, and group travel for outdoor recreation.