Brian Astle, 42, of Provo, Utah, Dies in Tragic Fall on Mount Gould in Glacier National Park
On Wednesday, July 9, 2025, at approximately 5:54 p.m., 42-year-old Brian Astle of Provo, Utah, was descending a steep, off-trail climbing route on the west face of Mount Gould—the highest point of the Garden Wall in Glacier National Park, standing at 9,557 ft. He fell from a significant height above the popular Highline Trail and was critically injured
Park rangers promptly responded, deploying both ground teams and aerial resources from ALERT and Two Bear Air. Due to hazardous conditions, recovery efforts were postponed overnight. At approximately 10 a.m. on July 10, Two Bear Air successfully recovered Brian’s body and transported him to the Apgar Horse Corral. Later, his remains were taken to the Flathead County Coroner’s Office
🌲 Community and Park Response
The National Park Service expressed its deep condolences to Brian’s family and requested privacy during this difficult time. Park officials extended thanks to ALERT, Two Bear Air, and Flathead County Sheriff’s Office for their swift response
Local and national news outlets—including People, AP News, Flathead Beacon, and KUTV—covered the incident, underscoring the risks of venturing off-trail in rugged wilderness
👤 Remembering Brian Astle of Provo, Utah
While formal obituary details are still pending publication by Brian’s family or funeral services, we can remember him for:
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His adventurous spirit—tackling demanding climbs and off-trail routes.
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His courage and passion for the outdoors, inspiring others in the climbing community.
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The love and admiration of family, friends, and fellow climbers in Provo and beyond.
🔍 Investigation Status
Glacier National Park is still investigating the circumstances surrounding Brian’s fall. No new details have been released yet. Key focus areas include:
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Nature of the terrain and whether he was climbing with companions.
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Weather, rock conditions, and safety precautions taken.
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Any equipment or technical difficulties involved.
💡 Honoring His Memory
Family, friends, and community members wishing to honor Brian can consider:
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Leaving tributes or floral arrangements through Provo-area funeral homes once arrangements are announced.
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Sharing stories or memories—either privately with loved ones or publicly (if desired by the family).
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Making a donation in Brian’s memory, perhaps to an outdoor safety or climbing-related charity, once designated.
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Encouraging safer practices on off-trail climbs—his passing underscores the unpredictable nature of such terrain.
🌿 Reflections & Lessons
Brian’s passing is a poignant reminder of the thin line between triumph and tragedy in wilderness pursuits. Key takeaways include:
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Even experienced climbers face severe risks off established routes.
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Prompt emergency response is invaluable, yet rough terrain can delay rescue.
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Supporting grieving families and building awareness of wilderness safety can help prevent future tragedies.
🕊️ In Memoriam: Brian Astle
Although formal services and obituary notices are still to come, Brian’s legacy—as a dedicated climber, a cherished son or brother, and a community member with a passion for nature—will endure. His death on July 9, 2025, in Glacier National Park leaves us both with sorrow and gratitude: sorrow for the loss, and gratitude for the joy he found in scaling peaks and sharing passion with others.
May Brian rest in peace, and may his loved ones find solace in community support and collective