Manitou Incline Hiker Identified After On-Trail Collapse

Officials say the 48-year-old collapsed with breathing problems and later died, a development that underscores the physical risks of the steep, heavily used trail.

Overview

Hikers gave immediate first aid after the man collapsed partway up the Manitou Incline and search-and-rescue teams reached the scene before he was taken to a hospital where he later died.
El Paso County authorities have identified the victim as 48-year-old Nickolay Jogolev and confirmed his collapse followed reported breathing problems.
Jogolev was reportedly on a Cub Scout–related hike with his 9-year-old son and is survived by a large family; friends have started a GoFundMe to help seven children, including some with complex special needs.
Law enforcement closed the Incline temporarily during the emergency, and officials reiterated guidance that the trail gains more than 2,000 feet in under a mile and requires hikers to assess fitness and prepare accordingly.
The death follows at least one other fatality on the Incline last year and highlights how heavy use of the route raises the chance of medical emergencies and strains rescue operations.