HIKING -- After completing a rescue, Glacier National Park officials are giving two missing hikers a pat on the back for making their job easier.

The two female hikers, both park employees, were rescued after injuries in a fall during a day hike prevented them from completing their hike as planned and forced them to remain in the mountains.

A friend of one employee and a family member of the other employee contacted park staff to report the overdue hikers early Monday morning after the two had not returned.

Searchers keyed on the hikers' planned itinerary between Logan Pass and Sperry Chalet, a high alpine area of rock cliffs, water falls, wet and slippery rocks and boulders and dense vegetation.  A storm had moved through the area Sunday evening. Weather for the search was inclement with limited visibility.

More than 40 park staff and cooperators joined the search along with aerial support from the Flathead County Sheriff and Forest Service.

The missing hikers were located late Monday on a cliff face above Avalanche Lake and hoisted out of danger by a helicopter crew on Tuesday when the weather improved and after the women had spent another night out.

"The following factors contributed to the success of this rescue operation," park officials said in a media release. 

• The hikers had planned ahead and were prepared with proper footwear, clothing and equipment. 
• They travelled as a pair.
• They were experienced hikers and were prepared for the challenging terrain. 
• They also left their planned itinerary with someone, which greatly aided in timely search and rescue response.

Risk is inherent with backcountry travel in Glacier National Park and there is no guarantee for visitor safety, officials said.

Significant hazards include stream and river crossings, steep snowfields, precipitous cliffs and ledges, unstable sedimentary rock, dangerous wildlife, and ever-changing weather, including sudden snowstorms and lightning. The best insurance for a safe and enjoyable trip rests with your ability to exercise good judgment, avoid unnecessary risks, and assume responsibility for your own safety while visiting Glacier’s backcountry.

• See a voluntary day trip plan form, which can be used to help search personnel concentrate search efforts along your intended route, saving critical time and possibly reducing risks to responders.
• See more backcountry planning tips.