Identity of deceased climber in Alaska national park confirmed as renowned New York forest ranger

Robbi Mecus, a 52-year-old climber from Keene Valley, New York, died after falling 1,000 feet in Denali National Park. An advocate for transgender representation in alpine climbing, she co-founded the Queer Ice Fest in 2022. Mecus, a forest ranger, was praised for her passion for protecting the environment. Her climbing partner, a 30-year-old woman from California, survived the fall but sustained serious injuries. The accident occurred during a climb on the mountain’s southeast face. Mecus previously shared her experience transitioning as a ranger, stressing the importance of visibility and fighting for those without privilege.

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