Keith Lusher 09.08.25
A tragic accident on one of Montana’s most popular hiking destinations claimed the life of a 73-year-old Iowa woman this week. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that can lurk on even well-traveled trails in our national parks.
Park officials report that Diane Bunker of Muscatine, Iowa, died Wednesday after suffering fatal injuries from a 450-foot fall on the notorious Highline Trail. The accident occurred between Big Bend and Triple Arches, two key landmarks along the scenic but perilous route that draws thousands of visitors annually.
According to park officials, Bunker was hiking with a large group around 11 a.m. when she tripped and fell off the edge of the trail, disappearing from sight of her hiking companions. The Highline Trail is notorious for its narrow, cliff-side sections with steep drop-offs and cable handrails that challenge even experienced hikers.
Two Bear Air rescue services quickly responded to the scene and located Bunker below the trail. She was recovered and transported to the Apgar horse corrals before being transferred to the Flathead County coroner. The Going-to-the-Sun Road was temporarily closed from Logan Pass to Big Bend for approximately one hour during the recovery operation.
This latest fatality marks the 24th fatal fall at Glacier National Park since its establishment in 1901. The most recent prior incident occurred just last month on July 9, when 42-year-old Brian Astle of Provo, Utah, fell while descending a steep, off-trail climbing route on Mount Gould, which sits above the Highline Trail.
Social media responses to news of the accident reflect the trail’s intimidating nature. “Today there is no way a trail this narrow and dangerous would be allowed to be cut out of the side of a cliff,” wrote one hiker on an online forum. “There are many high-exposure sections throughout the trail where you cannot fall; or it would almost certainly mean death,” noted another experienced hiker who described the trail as absolutely not suitable for children due to its cliff exposure.
While drowning remains the most common cause of death in Glacier National Park, falls continue to pose a significant threat to visitors. The incident also comes just days after another park visitor was seriously injured in a bear attack, highlighting the various hazards that outdoorsmen face in this unforgiving wilderness.
For those planning to tackle the Highline Trail or similar challenging routes, park officials stress the importance of proper preparation, staying alert, and maintaining situational awareness. The trail’s stunning alpine scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities make it a bucket-list destination for many hikers, but the recent tragedy underscores that nature doesn’t discriminate when it comes to danger.
Park officials have expressed their sincere condolences to Bunker’s family and have requested that the public respect their privacy during this difficult time. An investigation into the incident remains ongoing.
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