Hiker's Courageous Act Saves Dog in Tricouni Peak Accident

Margaux Cohen, an avid hiker near Vancouver, British Columbia, experienced a harrowing accident while descending Tricouni Peak on August 24, 2025. In an act of devotion to her dog Zion, who slipped on a trail, Margaux grabbed his harness to prevent him from falling. Unfortunately, his weight pulled her down with him, resulting in a fall of approximately 60 feet (18 meters).

The Incident on Tricouni Peak

Margaux had just finished summiting Tricouni Peak with her friend Max Stobbe and his cousin. On the way down, they realized they were off the main trail. Searching for a way back, they found a small rock outcropping Margaux described as manageable. Max descended first, holding Zion, then Margaux followed, but during this time, Zion lost his footing and slid down the slope.

Instinctively, Margaux grabbed Zion’s harness to stop him from slipping further, but the dog's weight overwhelmed her balance, causing her to tumble down the mountainside. Her fall was not a single straight descent but a series of rolls and impacts against rocks before finally coming to a stop on flatter ground.

Injuries and Rescue Efforts

Margaux immediately realized she had suffered a serious injury; her leg was broken and dislocated. Despite the pain, she remained conscious and was able to call out for help. Her friends located her and alerted emergency responders.

Squamish Search and Rescue teams faced challenging conditions including a heatwave and rugged terrain, taking approximately two hours to reach Margaux and Zion. During the wait, Margaux endured intense heat and discomfort but remained resilient.

Medical Treatment and Recovery

Margaux was transported by helicopter to Lions Gate Hospital in North Vancouver, where she underwent surgery to begin repairing her leg. She will need additional procedures including the insertion of plates and screws and must anticipate a long recovery involving physical therapy. Zion also received veterinary care for an injured paw but escaped significant harm.

Financial support has been sought through a crowdfunding campaign to assist with Margaux’s medical bills and living expenses during recovery, as well as veterinary costs for Zion.

A Positive Spirit Amidst Adversity

Despite the ordeal, Margaux maintains a positive outlook, expressing gratitude for her rescuers and the care she has received. She reflects on the experience with humor, noting Zion’s apparent indifference to the fall as he wagged his tail beside her.

Her story has resonated widely, highlighting both the risks inherent in outdoor adventures and the deep bonds between humans and their pets.

Reflections on Hiking Safety and Community Support

Margaux’s accident has sparked conversations about the importance of caution when hiking with pets, especially in challenging terrain. With experts advising on leash control and trail selection, her experience serves as a cautionary tale for outdoor enthusiasts.

The local community has rallied around her, praising her resilience and supporting her financial needs as she embarks on her recovery journey.

Conclusion

Margaux Cohen’s fall while saving her dog Zion is a dramatic reminder of the unpredictability of nature and the strength of human-animal bonds. Her courageous act to protect her beloved pet, followed by her determined recovery, inspires many and underscores the vital role of emergency responders in preserving life during wilderness accidents.