Montana rock climber credits helmet for surviving 50-foot fall after boulder strike

Cody Boehm was rock climbing at Confluence Crag near Custer Gallatin National Forest when a microwave-sized boulder, accidentally dislodged by a climbing partner, struck him and caused a 50-foot fall. The accident resulted in multiple serious injuries including a broken collarbone, seven fractured ribs, a collapsed lung, and a severe laceration on his back. However, his climbing helmet prevented what medical professionals described as potentially life-threatening head trauma.

Boehm remained conscious throughout the ordeal and witnessed the complex rescue operation, which required tree crews to clear obstacles and involved multiple emergency response teams. Despite his injuries, Boehm maintains an optimistic outlook and plans to return to climbing, emphasizing the crucial importance of helmet use in preventing fatalities in climbing accidents.