National Park Service ranger dies while on patrol at Mount McKinley

Published June 6, 2026 4:11 PM CDT

Sunset on Mount Denali previously known as Mount McKinley, the highest mountain peak in North America, at 20, 310 feet above sea level. Alaska Mountain Range, Denali National Park and Preserve.. (Photo by: Joe Sohm/Visions of America/Universal Images

A National Park Service ranger died Thursday after she fell into a crevasse while patrolling on Mount McKinley.

What we know:

Robin Pendery was conducting a climbing patrol around 2 p.m. near 14,000 Foot Camp when she fell, the National Park Service (NPS) explained in a statement. Rescuers rushed to save Pendery, who lived in Enumclaw, Washington, but she later died.

What we don't know:

The National Park Service has released few other details about her death, noting its ongoing investigation into the fall. Its statement added that more information would be released when it is available.

What they're saying:

"We are heartbroken by the loss of a member of our Denali family," said Superintendent Brooke Merrell. "Our mountaineering rangers dedicate themselves to serving visitors and helping others in one of the most challenging environments in the world. Today, we mourn the loss of a valued colleague, friend and teammate. Our thoughts are with Robin’s family and loved ones."

Dig deeper:

Pendery joined the mountaineering staff at Denali in 2024 and was involved in climber safety, rescue operations, and mountaineering operations at Mount McKinley, the highest peak in North America, the NPS said.

The agency added that its focus right now is on supporting her family, friends, and colleagues. 

The Source: Information for this article was taken from The National Park Service. This story was reported from Orlando.


 

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