According to the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, 21 year old Hiker Richard Jacobson died after falling from Flatiron in the Superstition Mountains of Arizona in Lost Dutchman State Park.
Deputies say they received a 911 call just after midnight on January 24 th 2022 after another hiker reported that his friend had fallen from Flatiron.
The two had been camping on top of Flatiron when Richard Jacobson went to the edge to take a photo.
According to reports, Richard Jacobson slipped and fell. Officials found his body nearly 700 feet below.
Flatiron is an iconic rock formation in the Superstition Mountain range in Arizona that looks just like a flat iron.
Flatiron is accessible via Siphon Draw Trail in Lost Dutchman State Park.
It’s one of the most challenging and sought after day hikes in the Superstition Mountains.
The trail is 5.5 miles long out and back with an elevation gain of 2,641 feet.
This trail can be broken up into three major sections:
- A gentle Meadow slope
- A slick rock area
- A vertical climb
From the slick rock and up, the hike requires more concentration and more scrambling both on the way up and down.
The end of the trail opens up to jaw dropping views of the valley. Making this strenuous hike worth while.
What’s known to most as a great day-hiking destination is known to few as an overnight backpacking spot.
Backpackers can pitch their tents at the Flatiron for overnight camping.
The incident reported took place on a camping trip.
Camping at the top of Flatiron is a unique adventure but can present a lot of challenges.
The campsites are exposed and there isn’t enough shield from strong winds, which are very common at the top.
Lugging a 20–30 pound backpack and climbing 2,641 feet to the top is not an easy task, especially when a good amount of scrambling is required.
This loss is heartbreaking news for the community at large and serves as a reminder that all safety practices should remain habitual.
Hiking and Backpacking is a great way to enjoy the outdoors but it’s not without its risks.