High-Angle Rescue at Pewit's Nest

July 30, 2025 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Press Release: Technical Rescue On Monday, July 29th, 2025, at approximately 8:00 PM, the Baraboo Area Fire and EMS District (BAFED) was dispatched to Pewit’s Nest State Natural Area for a report of an individual who fell approximately 20 feet, with a reported leg injury. Upon arrival, the first BAFED unit located the patient at the bottom of the gorge and established verbal contact. BAFED personnel set up a high-angle rope system, which was used to gain access and begin treating the patient. Once stabilized and packaged in a Stokes Basket, the patient was safely hoisted to the top of the gorge via the high-angle rope system. UW Med Flight was requested to respond to the helipad at St. Clare Hospital. The patient was transferred via ambulance from the scene to the helipad at St. Clare Hospital, where patient care was then transferred to UW Med Flight personnel. No injuries to rescue personnel were reported. BAFED personnel were assisted by the Sauk County Sheriff’s Department, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and UW Med Flight. BAFED would like to remind visitors that leaving the marked walking paths poses a serious risk of injury. ### Contact: Chief Caleb Johnson cjohnson@baraboofireandems.com