On July 13, during a heavy rainstorm in Yosemite National Park, Grace Rohloff, a student from Arizona State University, tragically fell to her death while descending the Half Dome cables.
Grace, hiking with her father, Jonathan, lost her footing on the slick granite amid a sudden downpour. Despite their extensive hiking experience and attempts to stay safe, the severe weather conditions proved fatal.
Jonathan described Grace as a vibrant and fearless adventurer. They had hiked numerous challenging trails together, including Angels Landing in Zion National Park and the Grand Canyon.
Grace’s passion for hiking led her to secure a permit for Half Dome through Yosemite’s daily lottery system. The father-daughter duo drove from Phoenix to Yosemite, setting out early on the tough 16-mile hike, which they were thrilled about.
Initially, the weather seemed favorable, but as they reached the top of Half Dome, a sudden storm rolled in. The rain made the granite surface extremely slippery.
Grace’s new hiking shoes, which were supposed to provide good traction, failed her. Despite their best efforts to navigate the treacherous conditions, Grace slipped and fell about 200 feet. Jonathan tried to reach out to help her, but she had already fallen off the granite.
Jonathan’s immediate response was to descend the cables as quickly as possible to reach his daughter, but the steep terrain prevented him from doing so.
In his desperation, he called for help and waited for rescue teams. A park ranger, Shawna Daly, provided emotional support during the three-hour wait for the rescue helicopter.
Grace was remembered as a remarkable young woman. At Valley Lutheran High School, she excelled academically and athletically, setting records in track and field and playing basketball.
Her kindness and empathy extended beyond her achievements. She worked as an aide for a girl with Down syndrome and as a barista, all while taking extra classes to graduate early and pursue a career as a math teacher.
Her mother, Astraea Rohloff, recounted a touching memory of Grace’s thoughtfulness. A sticky note Grace left behind, after helping with household chores, read, “Just trying to help you have a better day today.” This small act encapsulated Grace’s spirit.
Grace’s family and friends mourned her loss deeply. Her cousin Emily Samora highlighted Grace’s dedication and the joy she brought to those around her.
The family hoped that retrieving Grace’s backpack, which contained photos from their hike, might provide some solace. Park officials have not commented on whether they will attempt to recover it.
Grace’s tragic accident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of nature and the importance of safety in outdoor adventures. Her legacy of kindness, determination, and adventure will continue to inspire those who knew her.
At least five other people aside from Grace have sadly died in the same way at the Half Dome.
