Calgary hiker dies after fall on Mount Temple route in Banff National Park

A 65-year-old Calgary man has died after falling while hiking the Mount Temple scrambling route in Banff National Park, according to Parks Canada.

Parks Canada said visitor safety specialists responded after receiving a report that the man had slipped and fallen while hiking with a group on Saturday. Members of the group were able to call for emergency assistance.

Rescue crews reached the area by helicopter and used a heli-sling to transport the man to a staging area. He was pronounced dead at the scene, Parks Canada said.

Mount Temple is one of Banff National Park's most popular and demanding scrambling routes. According to Parks Canada, the route includes more than 1,700 metres of elevation gain, steep loose scree and an exposed rock crux, making it suitable only for experienced hikers prepared for alpine conditions.

Parks Canada extended its condolences to the man's family. "Parks Canada would like to express their condolences to the family for this loss," said Justin Brisbane, public relations and communications officer for the Lake Louise, Yoho and Kootenay Field Unit.