Two Hikers Die on Washington Mountain in Separate Incidents Over One Weekend
Gary Idleburg, 66, and Peter Kalapaca, 78, fell to their deaths on steep trails of Sauk Mountain.
Two hikers have died on Sauk Mountain in Washington in separate incidents over a single weekend, according to the Skagit County Sheriff’s Office. Gary Idleburg, 66, of Olympia, and Peter Kalapaca, 78, both lost their lives after falling on steep trails.
On September 19, at approximately 3:30 p.m. local time, the Skagit County Sheriff’s Office received a report of an individual who had fallen from a switchback trail near Concrete. This individual was identified as Gary Idleburg. Witnesses estimated that Idleburg fell between 800 and 1,000 feet after going "over the edge of the trail." A 24-hour search-and-rescue operation was launched, requiring assistance from Washington State Parks staff and helicopter support due to the secluded and rocky terrain. Ground crews, aerial support, and scent-tracking dog units were involved in the recovery effort.
Prior to the report of Idleburg’s fall, on September 17, the Sheriff's Office responded to a call from family members reporting a hiker separated from his group on a trail. A helicopter later located Peter Kalapaca, who was unresponsive and deceased. Kalapaca's son, Andy Kalapaca, stated that his father was an experienced hiker and suggested that age may have been a factor, emphasizing the importance of hiking with others.
Idleburg was remembered as an advocate for prisoners, having taught classes at the Black Prisoners Caucus. He also produced a monthly broadcast focused on prison reform and the criminal justice system for local radio station KSER 90.7 FM. Additionally, he was a judo sensei, competing and coaching at Budokan Judo Dojo.
Kalapaca was described as an adventurous and fun-loving father and husband. His son noted that he did not suffer and that his last moments were spent doing something he enjoyed.
This is not the first time fatalities have occurred on the Sauk Mountain Trail. At least five hikers have died on the trail over the past decade. The Skagit County Sheriff’s Office extended its condolences to the victims' families.