Conundrum Hot Springs sees rise in drug and alcohol-related rescues

Mountain Rescue Aspen reports an increase in emergency calls involving drug and alcohol use at Conundrum Hot Springs. The site, located near Aspen and accessed via a 17-mile roundtrip hike through the White River National Forest, has become a focal point for these incidents.

During a recent mission, emergency services responded to a satellite distress call regarding a 29-year-old hiker experiencing difficulty breathing and involuntary muscle spasms. Due to stormy weather, a helicopter evacuation was impossible, requiring a 16-member rescue team to perform a nighttime carryout. The hiker was found to be stable and alert, with bystanders reporting substance consumption. This marks the third such incident involving drugs or alcohol reported by the organization this season.