What do you think it costs to rescue a fallen or lost mountain climber?

Interesting question. My first thought was the 2009 climbers that were lost on Mt. Hood, Oregon. I couldn’t find the specifics for the costs of that search, but a similar search in on Mt. Hood in 2006 cost about $4,000 a day, and lasted several weeks. However, a large portion of the cost in these rescue operations comes from volunteers (both in money and in time spent aiding search efforts). Source.

I can’t say for sure, but I would imagine that there is a portion of money set aside annually just for search and rescue operations (especially in areas where they are most prone to happen), that comes from state and local governments via sales and property taxes.

In considering whether or not the climber should cover part of the cost, I think it would have to be assessed on a case by case basis. If the climber knew what he/she was doing, and was pushing their limits – e.g. knew of an impending storm that could be dangerous, and still decided to risk climbing, then they should be held liable for some of the cost. However, sometimes things could get out of hand quickly, and a climber could be put into a situation that was really out of their control. I don’t think they should have to pay search costs in these instances. Again, it all boils down to the details, and should be assessed for each individual case.

How much does it cost to pay for the searchers, helicopters, and equipment?

A mountain of csah which should in part at least be paid for by the people rescued.

I’ve seen rescue shows on tv for extreme sports type accidents. They should pay the full shot.