The TERRIFYING Last Minutes of the Dancing Hiking Queen | The Crystal Gonzalez Story

[@TheExtreme-Edge]

I haven't hiked Mt Baldy, but I'm an avid hiker and have been caught in similar situations on bad terrain in bad weather. Crystal was experienced, prepared, and knew the mountain. Really sobering reminder on how one misstep can change everything. RIP, Crystal. You were loved, Dancing Hiking Queen.

[@sherrytrobinson1546]

I guess doesn’t matter how much, you think one has. You still die like a person with no so call experience. Not even worth mentioning (experience)You can’t beat nature

[@es9758]

​@@sherrytrobinson1546Yup

[@tonyhammer3588]

By perverts, MAYBE.

[@MsAchampion]

I don't mean any disrespect when I ask this question, but why in the world do y'all keep doing these type things 🤔? It always ends the same most of the time. Why do you all have to conquer everything? It's not enough to just get through your school years and attend college and earn a degree. It's not enough if you we're born into wealth and the approved skin color, you still want to do everything else in order to feel important. I have worked hard all of my life and I honestly could care less if I'm not excepted by people who choose to not like me on sight due to my skin color or my lack of earning a degree. I'm not doing anything that's going to take me away from the people and the things that I do enjoy. Some people don't actually know just how important they actually are. Some people look up to you for the simplest of things that you do and you make a difference in they're lives just by your presence. So, if you'll answer my question, it's fine or if yiu choose not to it's still fine, however it's so sad to keep seeing otherwise awesome people passing away due to they're very own decisions. ❤

[@sherrytrobinson1546]

@@MsAchampion ok, that’s a lot of writing. Your so kind, wish you lots of blessings. I don’t what’s to say, after all that writing ✍️

[@r12rtpilot]

This video brought back memories. I was an Airmedic on 40King for years and spent years flying rescues in San Bernardino County. Part of Mt Baldy is in our jurisdiction, and I witnessed many tragedies here. Be safe, hikers, and don’t take these mountains for granted!

[@ccrider3435]

You guys ROCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! TY TY TY

[@stevecarr323]

@@ccrider3435 Thanks, it was a good job! Be safe in your travels!

[@James-100]

One thing that makes Mt Baldy so dangerous is that it doesn’t “seem” very dangerous in fair weather. But in snowy and icy conditions, it continues to claim the lives of recreational, experienced and even expert hikers. Crystal’s story is sad and sobering, but it looks like she experienced joy and happiness during her many mountain adventures. RIP Crystal.

[@Mary-momof8]

How does a mom of 4 get to hike so much? I was knee deep in the kids' daily lives. RIP Crystal.

[@TC-dw6wg]

She was 52 so no little children at home.

[@Johnny2Bags47]

Oh her mom took care of the selfish chick's little brats. She just wanted to skip around and dance around on the mountain. She was only paying attention to getting laid and getting paid on Mount Baldy. CHEEEOOOWWW

[@sharie9331]

I take my kids on hikes and camping with me. I only have 2, but they do a lot of activities (soccer, dance, basketball, STEM club, etc.) so I try to get some hobby time in as well. 😊

[@suzeelewis718]

Because she was 56!!! Kids grown up

[@994pt4]

but needs money for a funeral? 'priorities' I guess

[@johnnylogan5927]

Social media is full of people in love with themselves.

[@LilyGazou]

Yes.

[@JulieRushworth]

It really is

[@es9758]

Yup that's the problem people are full of themselves and it is SICKENING!!

[@asmanh3021]

You should try to be in love with yourself. Time for change

[@Sadbuttrue-ThatSwedishGirl]

😂

[@Sirshackleton]

Lots of people climb mountains and a lot of people ride horses like I do. I know the danger when I head out for a riding trip but the joy makes it worth the risk. Life is fleeting and fragile for everyone. 🙏🏻

[@Pierre-wm3xs]

Riding horses and hiking in treacherous unforgiving places isn't even close

[@dizzymindy6024]

This was last winter, and our local search and rescue was so busy. It seemed to me like we had a fatality a weekend for a bit. Our local mountains got substantially more snow than usual, and the trail at Baldy is treacherous and parts of it are unforgiving. No one should have been on that mountain that weekend!! I am a local, and I think people underestimate Baldy. There are fatalities on that mountain every year.

[@ciararyan9370]

Riding horses can actually be very dangerous.

[@jonnes__4657]

There are risks in the mountains, and these risks also affect people. The aim is always to assess these risks realistically. And in the end, you also need luck. .

[@cathynewyork7918]

@@Pierre-wm3xs You are incorrect - It IS close. Riding horses is a fabulous sport - I also ride horses, and jump them - but if a horse gets frightened and goes out of control, you can be thrown and paralyzed or killed in the blink of an eye. This is even more dangerous than mountain hiking, as a horse is a living being with a mind of its own.

[@talkstory-andukulele-trave426]

San Gregorio is the highest peak, not Baldy. That said, I hiked Baldy one summer with my son and the weather got crazy as we approached the summit. The trail is barely wide enough for two people to walk, with steep drops on both sides and rain was coming down hard, with lots of wind. We pressed on and made the top, and luckily the storm let up and we slowly made it back down, only to find out a person died in a flash flood as he tried to drive out. It looks so easy and inviting, which means to be extra cautious about letting your guard down.

[@casssmith2610]

My daughter and son summited many peaks, mostly in the Northwest but in my daughter’s case, Europe and South America as well. Her then boyfriend was a professional climber, contracted as a civilian at one point to the US Army Rangers in Germany, training them in climbing. He knew his shit. But even he and his fellow training climber friend proved that Mother Nature is in charge as they made national news in 2004 climbing Mt Hood, in their own backyard. Sadly, the friend died. That ended everyone’s climbing… Shaun continues to sell climbing equipment but I’m happy to say my daughter and son haven’t climbed since.

[@christystewart4567]

True but it’s not considered part of the San Gabriels. Mt San Jacinto is also taller than Baldy.

[@Duckling08]

You never conquer a peak or mountain, go out in the woods with that mentality and expect to die. We are blessed when the mountains let us pass uninjured with no sacrifices. People need to respect the wilderness or she will kill you with no remorse and the world will continue without you.

[@paulb1915]

So true. Mother Nature demands respect. She is insidious.

[@twistoffate4791]

Well-stated and observed on all points.

[@christyph3382]

I hear she was not wearing any mountaineering boots, crampons, a helmet, or an ice axe when she tried to submit Mt. Baldy Bowl. She was wearing only microspikes, the same as Julian Sands, and no mountaineering gear. Hiking in bad weather conditions. Sad story. Must be paired with mountaineering gear and have mountaineering skills to submit Mt. Baldy Bowl and other high-altitude peaks with snow and ice. May they RIP.

[@scratchy1704]

It probably cramped her style.

[@cathynewyork7918]

It is terrible when people's vanity and ignorance leads to their own preventable death.

[@Ginasgusa]

For such hiking, spikes aren’t good enough. You need crampons, ice axe, helmets, snow shoes.... she should know all that. Once you go above treeline, there is nothing to stop you from falling. Winter hikes are beautiful but dangerous. Experience hikers should know all that. I just hiked in the whites in New Hampshire. It was so cold and windy that I could hardly remove my gloves long enough to take a few pics. I am not sure how she can pose for those pics wearing such skimpy clothes.

[@cathynewyork7918]

@@Ginasgusa I absolutely agree with you. Most sports have equipment which keeps people safer if it is used. All the things you mentioned would have probably saved the hiker's life. In the case of horseback riding, a hard helmet is a life-saver, but it is amazing how many people I see at our local stable riding a huge spirited unpredictable horse with no helmet. You are right - sports safety equipment saves lives.

[@cathynewyork7918]

@@scratchy1704 Maybe joking about her death is NOT nice.

[@JanessaRose-js2de]

I know a huge number of hikers like her in my area, they are absolutely not experienced and often do not know when they are crossing the line between a 'hike' and a mountaineering objective. I've seen a few too many cases of ignorance combined with toxic positivity and vanity putting people in dangerous situations from 'the gram'.

[@krystlships]

She was 56??? Did i hear that right cuz wow! at first i was annoyed with all her selfies thinking she was in her 30s and fill of herself but damn near 60 ok Crystal get it gma

[@cal3243]

56 years old and 4 kids is what the news said

[@veronicamz123]

So if you’re 30 you can’t do this, if you’re 60 then “you go girl” wtf is wrong with your brain lol

[@artmolina66]

I hiked with her a couple times and she was not an experienced mountaineer. Let’s be real she was more about selfies. She was a nice lady and great hiking partner but experienced mountaineer…NO!

[@IndigoBellyDance]

Thank u for the truth! Our IG world is a bubble w/in itself.

[@casssmith2610]

Like that TN Fly Girl. Sadly they don’t take their choice of adventure seriously enough. They’re more into the social media aspects. And in the case of these two, they end up permanently over the adventure as well as life. I’m really tired of this aspect of social media. Darwin was so right, natural selection.

[@Longhornechi]

Like the Canadian woman who insisted on climbing Mt Everest and had no experience. She got to the top and stayed up there for 30 minutes, not realizing that she didn’t have enough oxygen to get back down. One Sherpa gave her (not with her group) gave her an extra bottle and she was moving slowly, begging others not to leave her there. She is still up there, I think. Very sad but some people just don’t have respect for the danger of Mother Nature - sad ❤

[@danielavena5329]

@@Longhornechi born Nepal Canadian citizenship and she was told by sherpas to turn back, she decided to reach summit but her ego didn’t let her turn around and she didn’t make it back to camp.

[@Johnny2Bags47]

She loved to hike as high as she could so she could slide down on a big ass inner tube. YEEEEEE-HAWWWWWWWW

[@earndoggy]

It's not hard to see why people would think she was narcissistic because that's the overall impression but it's good to see that those who knew her saw her differently. Rest easy, young lady.

[@phoebehill953]

Breast implants and lip filler don’t (necessarily) mean a person is a “narcissist”!

[@earndoggy]

@@phoebehill953 correct, not necessarily, but that's the overall impression it gives to the majority of people.

[@jtdouglas9535]

This is flawed logic. It's the same reason that family members will typically stand by a sibling even when they are accused and convicted of murder or something horrific while their family keeps telling everybody what a wonderful person they are typically the people that are closest seldom see objectively. If this woman was just in it to share beautiful scenery with everybody she wouldn't be in every single photo sometimes hardly wearing anything on the side of a mountain. Let's be real

[@jtdouglas9535]

In short I know a lot of people who want to share the beauty of nature with others so they take photography of it. But guess what? They are not in every single photo showing their ass and boobs. Wake up

[@jtdouglas9535]

@@earndoggy I think you missed the sarcasm of that comment

[@EllieM_Travels]

She seemed like a beautiful person, but as a life insurance agent, it always saddens me when people have to start a go fund me for funeral expenses. Most people assume their grown children will be able to cover it. Tragic loss

[@Em-mr6wu]

I've noticed this as well, and I truly don't understand it. Make sure you have enough cash for your own funeral (or insurance).

[@adambane1719]

@@Em-mr6wu They have, they just want "free cash" from all that sympathy instead

[@taylortwinsandpreslie8662]

And if you're almost retirement age, and you do dangerous hikes regularly, HOW do you not prepare for end of life expenses. Death is inevitable, why burden your family with bills?

[@oldskolacura9798]

She wasn't terribly old so I'm assuming she never planned it. But climbing tall places there is always that chance.

[@travelnomad2128]

Most of these go fund me raisers can afford the expenses themselves but they just want the free money from strangers. It's the norm now but I don't donate cuz most are scams!

[@jjman533]

I've hiked Baldy several times during spring and summer. I would never hike that in the snow. Every year imbeciles hike Baldy in the snow and need rescuing. Those that don't make it are usually found days later. They need a NO RESCUE policy when there's snow at Mt Baldy.

[@994pt4]

I agree...quit rescuing these attention seekers!

[@ontplates]

Or at the very least have papers stating you are a professional climber. Amateur and Novice climbers need not apply

[@RebelsOnPedals]

I know I’m about to be the a$$ that has said the harsh things. But as a new year has rolled a new lost has been added to the list. This time it was a 22 year old young lady. I had kept my opinions to myself. However, it is time to talk and perhaps teach something and prevent more losses. Mt Baldy, although it is not the highest peak in southern california, however it is the one that takes the most victims. During the late spring, summer and fall, I know it can be hiked with just short and 2L of water. But during winter it is not a hike. backcountry/mountaineering equipment, knowledge and experience is needed. It is an alpine climb. Having said that, I had run into Chrystal G (dancing hiking queen) twice. She was friendly and started conversations with everyone. The second time I run in to her, it was a week or so before the premature end. She was an easy to remember person. And being this the second time I talk to her, I felt comfortable trying to give advice. See, it is kind of contradicting, but she didn’t seem to be knowledgeable or well experience on mountaineering or even hiking. I know she did a lot, compared to most. But let me put it this way. You can drive a car every day. But never be a professional race driver. Regardless of how fast you drive your car. Her foot wear was not appropriate for the terrain and I try to explain that microspikes do not replace crampons. But as I try to give more advice she quickly shuts me up by telling me she knows what she is doing and that it was not her first time. On January 8, 2023 I was also there. I was on my way down. I didn’t see how she fell but I saw her as she was falling. At first I didn’t know it was her. But she didn’t fall alone. 2 more fell with her. However, they did survive suffering broken bones. I helped by putting her on the litter when the sheriff’s helicopter came back and dropped two officers and the litter. She was not ear lifted as the video says. Due to weather, the helicopter was not able to safefly return to take her. We ( about 10 people plus the 2 sherrifs) carri her down the rest of the bow and set her on top of the picnic table by the San Antonio sky hat. The snow was almost at the sit level so the top of the table was about knee high. SNR was call and she was then taking by man power all the way out to the main trail. Then load in loaded in to one of the 2 SNR vehicles. Now this is what saw. She was not properly dress for the environment. When her bag was check for identification she had not proper gear there ether. Some how she lost one shoe during the fall. It was later return by another climber. But it was a regular hiking boot. The boot that was return still had the microspikes but one she was wearing was not. The true is that she was not knowledgeable or experience from 2020 to present times the amount of people getting hurt, getting lost, or and losing life, Has increased. It increased dramatically to where SNR teams area getting overwhelmed. Everyone that has getting hurt, lost of died, have been said that they are experienced and knowledgeable. And i know accidents happen and it can happend to anyone. But when every single death the evidance left behind shows that they were far from being experienced, well that then is a different story. Every one had been said to be experts and prepared but every one that had got hurt where not prepared or can be consider experts. Furthermore, technology has advance to the point people can’t live without it. They don’t know how to navigate. I have notice that experience people are pushing limit that they can handel because satellite communicators gives them a sense of false security. Now even cellphone can send satellite messages. But that is not like calling an uber. One can’t just push the limit and think that you can just push a button and someone is coming. Stay withing your limit and when you are ready to grow and take more challenge do it with someone that can teach you the proper way. I’m sorry if this is not an easy read. Typing this much in a cell phone kinda sucks. Sorry for the typos and all the other mistakes I could have made. Thank you for your time and I’m sorry for the friends and family members that I could have offended. It is not my intention to offend her memories. But, to prevent more people from falling victims.

[@michaelosgood9876]

Such a beautiful lady. Great shots of her and the backgrounds. Loved the photo of her in mid air with waterfall in background. RIP Crystal

[@davidfairless1028]

I've been to the top of Mt. Baldy in icy conditions. It is dangerous, but only if you don't pay attention to where you're walking. If she had an ice axe and knew how to use it, she may have experienced a different outcome.

[@cathynewyork7918]

Yes, she WAS doing a "vanity project" - all about showing off for the camera. I am sorry she died in such a tragic way, but if she didn't have the huge ego to show off her cleavage for the camera she would have hiked more safely. I have hiked Mt. Baldy many times, as I lived in Southern California from birth to age 70 - and I always came back safely.

[@tonyhammer3588]

So true

[@Baskerville22]

She should have done a Playboy centrefold and left it at that

[@cathynewyork7918]

@@Baskerville22 You're right! If she had done a Playboy centerfold instead of the mountain climb it would have helped her ego to show off her body AND she would still be alive today.

[@dominiquedoeslife]

Bro…what? Did I stumble into 1996?

[@WilliamsPinch]

Jealous of a dead woman, you’re sick Cathy.

[@michellegarry1872]

Perhaps these hikers should wear helmets. Might have at least kept her skull intact.

[@barbarapaine8054]

The rangers and SAR will tell you that hiking Baldy in the winter is more like Alpine mountaineering than hiking, and some of the more experienced and prepared hikers do wear helmets. Not so much to protect themselves from a fall, but because of the slabs of snow and ice that randomly fall from trees. I was up in that area one time in the summer, and saw a baseball size rock just rolling down the slopes and skipping over switchbacks. No particular reason for it to be there. If it hit you, it would definitely have ruined your day

[@Pierre-wm3xs]

LoL 😂😂. Wishful thinking. You fall from that high. A helmet isn't going to save you.

[@flightographist]

I too have observed this. Once in BC, we were transiting a chute and off to one side we heard this distant thumping, then brush and trees crashing, then a boulder the size of a buick came smashing out of the tree line sending scree chunks everywhere..@@barbarapaine8054

[@marksauce2383]

​@@Pierre-wm3xs didn't fall. Slid. Helmet would have definitely helped her.

[@blitztim6416]

I’ve hike Baldy. I wouldn’t do it in the winter. But people do. And there are a lot of rescues each year. As well as several deaths. Maybe people think it’s safe because it’s so close to the city.

[@dizzymindy6024]

I think you are correct. People underestimate Baldy, and I think it being in SoCal, people think it can’t be that dangerous.

[@miapdx503]

It's the same with Mt. Hood here in Portland. It looks so close...but the terrain is wicked, and it's easy to get lost.

[@jcfc8197]

I’m a mountaineer, and I’ve never heard of her. Not sure why this video showed up.

[@PunkDogCreations]

No need to blasphemy with your profile.

[@jcfc8197]

@@PunkDogCreations since we really don’t know what Jesus look like, it’s not blasphemy, it’s just a picture. As a Catholic, I wear a crucifix necklace, which shows Jesus on the cross. Is that blasphemy? No because it’s just jewelry. Jesus is my Lord and Savior, and I’m proud of it. I’m also a proud member of JCFC which means Jesus Christ Fishing Company. I highly doubt Jesus will be upset at me for being one of his believers.

[@BlueCollaredGrit]

You’re Jesus Christ, it’s ok

[@jcfc8197]

@@BlueCollaredGrit I never claimed to be Jesus Christ. Not sure why you think that. Jesus is my Lord and Savior, and I’m not afraid to say that.

[@BlueCollaredGrit]

@@jcfc8197 sorry to upset you

[@rk-us3zl]

Careless. Obviously not an experienced hiker. Wintertime always have a base layer, insulation layer and shell. Didn't even look like she owns any actual hiking gear. Looked like she had no concept of the ten essentials or the additional winter equipment to make it safely. Lots of instagram people hiking where they are not prepared. If they keep doing it, eventually it will catch up with them.

[@missychan63]

Why was she not wearing a helmet in any of these photos?

[@scratchy1704]

And she was always having her boobs out 😮

[@jtdouglas9535]

How would she fit all of her cute little floppy hats and ears over a helmet?

[@oldskolacura9798]

Probably just posing shots.

[@alexrolon3505]

As a native Southern Californian and hiker, this lady was not VERY BRIGHT taking a hike in that weather .

[@TransKidRevolution]

Her implants were redirecting the blood flow from her brain.

[@alexrolon3505]

@@TransKidRevolution lol

[@nickc8819]

Unfortunately , the people she surrounded herself , didn't say anything otherwise. It seems as if she was "stuck" in herself

[@kathismith7441]

@@TransKidRevolutionlol

[@techypantalones7820]

You are right! This is to show that she was not an avid or experienced hiker. An avid and experienced hiker will analyze and evaluate weather conditions before attempting to climb a mountain. Mindfulness over EGO!

[@MonteenMcCord]

Perhaps had she been properly dressed, she might have had a better chance of surviving the weather after the slide? Frankly, I've never seen a hiker with with so much exposed chest and cleavage.

[@JustaGirlinCleveland]

or lipstick. I cant believe Ive hiked for 50 years lipstickless.

[@theoriginalkaro]

Her air bags failed to deploy 🙄

[@Pierre-wm3xs]

All that looking cute for video likes. The mountain don't care how cute you are

[@FRT2]

Her exposed boobs were definitely the reason she died. That would have definitely protected her from the injury and the rescue team inability to reach the location faster. Just because you can't and are insecure, and wouldn't wear it does not mean others shouldn't.

[@JustaGirlinCleveland]

​ @FRT2 I definitely can and do wear even skimpier outfits, but not in inclement weather while hiking like an idiot! Had boo boo kitty been dressed for the weather, she may have lived until the rescue team arrived. #hubris

[@josedelarosa5424]

I know one of the person that got to her first and has video of that rescue as he stayed by her. I do baldy all the time and see people unprepared and disregarding conditions.

[@PastorBobUhls]

No matter the various criticisms, seems like she lived her life to the fullest. Some 56 year olds don't do much more than get out of bed and go to work every day. Rinse. Repeat. Glad that she loved life and did her thing… God bless her family.

[@kathismith7441]

Yeah that’s because they have to get up and go to work everyday and wish they could go hiking like this everyday.

[@adambane1719]

Well thats exactly what killed her, she only went hiking and took huge risks all for that glorious selfie.

[@josieann5031]

It doesn't seem she gave any thought to the four children she left without a mother. Selfish clout chasing idiot.

[@eugenemoore191]

PLEASE! This lady was clearly about attention not inspiration and hiking.

[@dinawhite5175]

Wow I hiked that mountain all the time growing up I grew up in Covina also such a beautiful mountain range !’ Very sad story losing your life but she went out probably the best way possible if you are a true mountain lover and hiker RIP

[@WH2012]

She truly died doing what she was passionate about. Julian Sands’ words are profound. 🙏🏻

[@colcostello160]

Dressed for a night out on the town.

[@TransKidRevolution]

Desperate for attention

[@markgray6982]

Experienced hiker ??? How many time's have i seen that right before the story of a Hiker who died ??? Why has MY Baldy taken so many ??? Because LA has alot of people,,,,,Walt Disney movies aint real Forest or Wilds,,,,,,weather and Wild-life will get you among other things

[@stevecarr323]

i agree with you. Mt. Baldy and the Angeles mountains breed a certain amount of contempt amongst hikes and pilots. As an Air Medic on 40King (SBCSD) we flew there and other local, very rugged mountains on regular occasions.

[@paulhomsy2751]

An experienced hiker knows how to dress appropriately and have with them ice axe and crampons in addition to sufficient food, water and the proper clothes to spend a night in the mountains if necessary. In her photographs she does not project that level of experience. She looks more like someone taking a stroll with their dog in a neighborhood park...Who wants to be noticed.

[@stevemorris6790]

There are other mountains in the USA with more casualties. Like Denali so Alaska have more people than LA?

[@christystewart4567]

@@stevemorris6790Baldy is easier to get to than Denali. It’s just north of interstate 10. The valley the freeway runs through has lots of people and has a major airport. Baldy also has a ski area.

[@jojojojo-ot4dh]

Hiked twice but only in late spring. Won’t dare in winter

[@zl1David]

fall is my favorite time here in the Whites/ nh. In late spring here there are black fly swarms everywhere.

[@linanicolia1363]

Hiking and climbing Everest are not the same thing......In the ice and snow, it is no longer "hiking". It is dangerous mountain climbing. Many people die.

[@sdriza]

people die... it's what we do - better to enjoy oneself now, cuz tomorrow may never come

[@Marinaxp1]

When you have 4 kids you better damn think about tomorrow not just "enjoy yourself now".

[@alberta1st]

She embraced nature with generosity and unfortunate its an unpretictable enviroment with many lost RIP

[@dorothylewis1207]

So sad, keep your Soul in order we never know 'our' time. 🙏❤️

[@vitoriapureza7018]

She was a beautiful and apparently joyful woman. RIP Crystal.

[@TeeKing]

I suppose that, given a choice of my last mortal moments, I'd probably choose to go out doing what I love (versus car crash, illness, etc.) In that light, what an inspiration to women my age-ish, to continue doing as much as we can to avoid becoming physically complacent. Travel lightly, blithe spirit.

[@jonnes__4657]

🗽 I know the mountains as a rock climber and skier... "Pride goes before a fall!" R.I.P. .

[@TransKidRevolution]

Yep, sheer hubris.

[@Chiller11]

Sometimes just bad luck. Lots of god tier climbers dead in the mountains.

[@mayahawj3852]

it is not the mountain that we conquer but ourselves! & remember getting to the Summit is only half the battle. It doesn't matter how experience someone is, there is always risk. RIP dancing Mountain Queen.

[@Longhornechi]

She was beautiful. Sad that she is gone. I used to hike when I was young with my brother and father. I brought my college roommate one year and she over estimated what she thought she could do. It almost cost both her and my brother’s life. He had to place his life in jeopardy to save hers. I don’t think she was ever the same. My parents taught me to ALWAYS respect nature because Mother Nature is more powerful than we are…..True dat ❤😢 RIP

[@zachpeat5076]

She wasn’t a experienced hiker. Not wearing a helmet was a dead give away. It was about her ego!

[@TerryRamsey-jg8fm]

No body had helmets...

[@techypantalones7820]

You are right! This is to show that she was not an avid or experienced hiker. An avid and experienced hiker will analyze and evaluate weather conditions before attempting to climb a mountain and have the proper gear. Mindfulness over EGO!

[@994pt4]

100%

[@EastWindCommunity1973]

Zach, why are you being such a self centered jerk? You don't know any of these people.

[@wplains]

I’m glad to say I’ve never had the slightest desire to climb a mountain, lol!

[@dant3113]

I only climb Baldy in the winter its called mountaineering not hiking. This chick was not experienced at all just did mediocre hiking here and there for the gram. That day she had zero gear via the hardest route. She was chasing clout thats all. Sad for the famiy though.

[@miapdx503]

People today are dying for attention.

[@Spartan-Of-Truth]

Good.

[@lindashaw3796]

Her photos are beautiful. She was beautiful, and created magical moments caught in time. A terribly sad ending to what seemed like a vibrant life. May she be hiking and dancing wherever she is ❤

[@ldsane1958]

Amen 🙏🏾

[@ciararyan9370]

I agree. I think it’s sad that people just assume she was self-absorbed. Sometimes people just enjoy sharing the things that make them happy. And if you can make a little extra money doing it, more power to you. There’s nothing like being in the mountains. I completely understand why she loved doing it even though I don’t prefer hiking in snowy conditions.

[@brianhawk1854]

I don't think so

[@brianhawk1854]

And I don't expect she was close to God

[@ciararyan9370]

@@brianhawk1854 really? I think that nature is the best place to be close to God. And lots of people who believe in God die in the wilderness. Nature doesn’t care what kind of person you are. Unfortunately, things like avalanches, landslides, storms, rockfalls, and unexpected things like downed trees that necessitate either turning around or going off trail occur. We like to think that if we’re completely prepared for an activity, we’ll be safe. We’ll be safer, but we’ll never be completely safe.

[@cal3243]

I’m glad she enjoyed hiking in her age and looks great doing what loves but always watch your weather forecast and know when it’s safe to do so. Many people that died on mountain 🏔️ hiking is due to not paying attention to where they are doing and is all about selfie 🤳 and gaining attention. Rest In Peace

[@ln233]

I hike up there all of the time but usually avoid going up there in the winter. There are some places you can slide and never be seen again. Especially in dark!!!!

[@Jennifer-pb9nd]

I really think rescue and recovery should not be available to people doing these kinds of activities. It puts others at too much risk and it costs all of us resources we can't afford especially in this catastrophic economy. Aaaaannnndddd.... I really think if someone loves a mountain that much, maybe they would want to stay there for eternity? I would. I can't imagine a more beautiful "resting place."

[@C.O._Jones]

Pretty shameless of her family to set up a Go Fund Me to pay for her funeral. If she had money for all the fancy gear and clothes, she had money for funeral expenses.

[@paulbjork2869]

And the time to hike all the time.

[@carlwilliams6977]

If you haven't noticed, the internet promotes shamelessness and deception!😊

[@nosphosferaoneeyedcat701]

Had four kids, she was selfish. This was something she should have quit after having kids!

[@smch6416]

​@nosphosferaoneeyedcat701 so you should have no hobbies if you're a parent? Ha. Better than having drinking wine as a hobby like most parents these days

[@kkrivs7864]

you’re so rude to assume something like that.

[@NoetherPoint]

She challenged nature, without respecting it, and lost. She should be a cautionary tale and nothing more.

[@TransKidRevolution]

These gofundmes have gotten absurd. Crystal just seemed like an attention seeking narcissist.

[@trinity9312]

All for the "Selfie".

[@kathismith7441]

Ridiculous right?

[@asong222]

She was full of herself and her family is shameless to set up a gofundme.

[@maureenfitzgerald1895]

Just because she had cool clothes in her videos doesn’t mean her DAUGHTERS had a dime. For all we know, she had a dozen maxed out credit cards and was behind on everything.

[@teewoods4886]

​@@maureenfitzgerald1895that's not our fault, if you take chances you need to be smart life insurance is under 45 dollars

[@tangerineblossom7478]

@@maureenfitzgerald1895 Yes her clothes were really cool and the photography was well done.

[@winstonsmiths2449]

Nah, she was not seeking attention. Many a hiker wear low cut tops, even in cold weather. Vanity was not in her.

[@michaelsmith9308]

Mount baldy is "Childs play" I graduated the military training crossing three of the most dangerous mountains in the US, misery, heartbreak and agony and yes that was unbelievable to hike through.....! In ANYTHING safety preparations is VITAl along with redundancy in communications, GPS beeper and sat phone, emergency clothes, and being armed......! Those two legged animals are very dangerous:(

[@reekgoesoutside]

Crazy when clout chasers die chasing clout

[@veronicababy7959]

I think people don’t take Baldy seriously because it’s so close to the suburbs. I can see it from my house, it must be easy!

[@christystewart4567]

I can see it from the top of my street. I can also see the San Gabriels from my driveway. I think you’re right about people not taking Baldy seriously. They don’t always take the other mountains seriously either sometimes. It seems because there are views south of the suburbs they seem safer and closer than they really are.

[@patriciaarodriguez6641]

I’ve never been there hiking but with three fatalities within a short time frame it’s surprising those trails would not be closed due to dangerous conditions.

[@shanequastunningbrave5376]

Because not everyones as to stop doing things because you live in your couch

[@barbarapaine8054]

The local sheriff’s office and rescue volunteers wish they would- they spend countless hours, taxpayer dollars, and risk their own lives hauling out people and, unfortunately, bodies. But it’s Federal land, closing the trail would have happen at the Federal level, and you can’t stop people who overestimate their own abilities. There are signs at the entrances to all of these trails warning people how unsafe it can be, and to be properly equipped. Unprepared People hike right past those signs. Also, you can be the most experienced and accomplished hiker or mountaineer, and just get unlucky. It happens.

[@TransKidRevolution]

That would be stupid

[@kathismith7441]

Inspirational??? Yeah I don’t think so.

[@LindysEpiphany]

People call her a narcissist because she is confident in her beauty and they are petty. I think Crystal was a person comfortable in her skin and with who she was. People mistake that for an ego when really they should strive to be more like her. RIP Pretty lady.

[@marksauce2383]

It's okay to be comfortable in your skin, but that doesn't mean I want to see it... 🙈

[@shucksful]

“Narcissistic woman falls off mountain”

[@mendez31971]

Look at me , look at me , I’m now on social media forever for being narcissistic and unrealistic

[@stephenkittle6586]

No Helmet,Ice axe ?? I summited the top 100 Highest peaks in Colorado in the "80"s and "90"s when there wasn't any CELL PHONES Not like Today!! When you left the trailhead ,you were on your OWN!! All you could do was TELL SOMEBODY where you were going and when you should be back !! We would sign the trail register at the trail head to let people know where We going! I never had any type of issues with the terrain, weather or anything else !! I would TURN AROUND when conditions would CHANGE AND PAY ATTENTION TO THE WEATHER BEFORE I WOULD GO !! I HAVE TURNED AROUND !!! YOU CAN ALWAYS GO BACK TO THE MTN IF YOU NEED TO WHEN CONDITIONS ARE BETTER!! YES PEOPLE LIKE SEEING WHAT OTHER PEOPLE DO ,IT'S A SOURCE OF MOTIVATION!! IT'S SAD TO SEE TRAGIC INCIDENTS WHILE TRYING TO ENJOY SOMETHING THAT'S SO AWESOME !!

[@shereemcardell3352]

She was a true free spirit, courageous with a passion to experience the unknown.

[@lagodifuoco313]

The tragedies happen to people who know about "Jacob's Grave" yet either forget to stop or bypass stopping to pay homage on their way up the road.

[@GreenTT-l1l]

The words of Julian Sands gave me chills, a man who perished on the very same mountain shortly after, and show that this woman deserves more grace than she’s receiving. To be female, beautiful, and on social media gives the world a license to call someone a narcissist, full of themselves, and vain. As this video states, dig a little deeper. There are ways to state your opinion about this woman and how she lived while being decent and respectful. To be anything less than that shows your own insecurities, jealousies, shortsightedness, and own propensity for unfair judgment. She isn’t here to speak for herself, and I have a feeling that if the roles were reversed, and she were the one remaining to either speak ill or good of you, she would choose the latter. RIP Dancing Hiking Queen.

[@shuayb06]

From what I see she was a click addicted narcissist. May she rest in peace now, I am sorry for her.

[@ursulasoames8602]

How would I know 🙈….harsh statement of somebody that died and you didn’t know 🙈

[@CaliCarolyn]

@@ursulasoames8602I guess she’s never heard that it’s extremely bad manners to speak negatively about the dead. Truly ignorant not to mention victim blaming. Not anyone I’d want to associate with.

[@gbedmonds1594]

No, no they wouldn't. There's not a fool on the planet that thinks "hey I wanna go hiking and possibly die! It's an idiotic statement. Life favors the meek, the humble and the OVER prepared. Go alone and fined out. Climbing doesn't suffer fools or "the over confident". As a mother of four you owe it to your children to be there. Even if it means living a long boring life without clicks, and that's why................RIP.

[@994pt4]

not to mention...buy life insurance!!!

[@cpt.oblivion]

Just by looking at her I thought she would have been an expert with mountains?! I love mountains.

[@anniehills3580]

Really good pics of her! In the pic of her throwing snow, there is a letter C in cloud form near the sun😅

[@tonycerviver2123]

What is disturbing about this story is she put the helicopter crew's in danger. What if they crashed into the mountain? Then we would have had more death on top of death.

[@994pt4]

yep...such a needless situation

[@danielrelinski5665]

The most dangerous mountain in the United States is a little mountain by comparison, Mount Washington in NH. That mountain has claimed more than 150 people. Highest winds on earth were recorded there, 231 mph. I have hiked that mountain many times and got caught in a blizzard at the end of May one year, barely made it to the top!

[@crkproductions5000]

Amazing peaks. RIP.

[@myrahutchins5234]

Indeed!!!😮

[@ontplates]

A seasoned climber but hardly a professional. Her focus was on the picture and to share these glorious adventures with people or strangers actually. It affects your thought process of safety and orientation, worrying about the next picture or next post and how it will be perceived. Her social media isn't for her, but for her followers. Social media is a disease.

[@wjatube]

Maybe she wouldn't get the criticism if she wasn't posing for photos wearing gobs of makeup and lipstick.

[@gideoncone6024]

And with her implants hanging halfway out -not to mention probably 10 - 15 pounds of sillacone throwing her balance off

[@vinnyfaxx9267]

"Generous and kind" notwithstanding, nobody does this unless they're looking for attention. No shortage of women looking for validation, and the outdoor community has their share too. 56 years old, hiking dangerous terrain - alone. Undoubtedly carrying un-necessary camera gear, makeup, outfits etc. etc. Perhaps an ice pick or additional climbing rope would have been more appropriate. A smidgeon of modesty may have prevented this tragedy, along with better decision making. Powerful lesson..

[@c.curtis5390]

Thanks for saying this.

[@stephendacey8761]

I think the video said she was with a group.

[@catherinewardwell2117]

I agree with you. She is definitely not the queen of hiking. She was into the image too much and not prepared:( So sad!

[@JGF08]

So you’re saying not wearing make up and not carrying camera gear, would have prevented the sheet of ice and snow from taking her after she slipped? It would have also prevented her body from slamming into a tree? You’re so smart.

[@kdsowen2882]

We have two Mountains in NZ that have killed a lot of people , the weather here can change so-fast . Aoraki/ Mt Cook has claimed 238-people with 60-bodies never found and Taranaki Maunga 80 . White-out Blizzards can occur at Mount-Cook in minutes , lasting more than a week . People have died in the Car-Park , just meters-away from the-safety of The Hermitage-Hotel . I once saw a storm approaching when i was near the-summit , you could see it winding like a snake through the valleys of the surrounding Southern-Alps . We literally ran down the mountain , surfing 200-meter 'Scree-slides' which is the only-reason we made it to safety . No-one could get into or out-of the area for 9-Days ! Nature can be swift and harsh . Dave nz

[@user-theblackDrPhil]

This is what being an ATTENTION SEEKER will get u everytime if u seek it enough..TAKE NOTES PEOPLE🧑🏾‍🏫

[@penzman5385]

Gravity has YOUR number, is patient and determined to pull you down the moment you forget about her or think you can beat or make fun of her.

[@teewoods4886]

Knowing you have kids and your hobbie is dangerous, common sense would tell you to have life insurance, i had life insurance since i was 20 its literally under 40 dollars a month.. Go fundme is not life insurance 4 real.

[@994pt4]

so true...but again, it's all about them other people can be responsible for their behavior

[@Eds7570]

I read about the actor who died on a hiking trip on Mt Baldy. He was the actor who played Yuri the pimp in the movie, Leaving Las Vegas with Nicholas Gage and Elizabeth Shue.

[@maxheuser4968]

The narrative is so over-the-top

[@davevargas360]

I’m not a social media person because I don’t partake in the whole nonstop selfie thing. When you are more worried about what your picture will look like than safety you are in trouble. I have seen it working at a Northern New Mexico ski resort. Also leaving 4 kids behind, wow!

[@ortegaviacava]

No helmet? Not so pro, then.

[@uprightmovement]

You never conquer mountains

[@davereid-daly2205]

Far too many people head off into the wilderness without adequate training behind them. Its hard to imagine anyone attempting an ascent/decent in bad weather on a steep incline who is not roped in to their team mates or carrying an ice axe. These are the most basic safety measures mountain climbers use. Yes its a bitch to constantly carry extra equipment. But that how its done. Rescue teams put their own lives at risk because in so many cases the basics were not followed which made a crisis inevitable. What a sad loss for her children and family. A shout out to all the brave Heli-bourne-rescue crews around the world. There is nothing as heart warming than to hear the sound of those helicopter blades when you are stranded on a ledge or lying in the snow wondering if you will make it home....

[@Frenchylikeshikes]

Really wonder what got her famous online...

[@user-theblackDrPhil]

Plus hiking with no life insurance😒

[@Mr.SharkTooth-zc8rm]

She was a gorgeous woman and you can see that her lifestyle (disregarding the Social Media addiction) kept her looking super healthy. The most bad-ass SpecOps man would suffer mortal injuries in a fall like that. Nature doesn't care what kind of people we are in life.

[@steventhaw3765]

Only a fool would try to conquer any mountain!!!

[@994pt4]

especially these 'fearless' fools!

[@angelabordack]

R.I.P. to Crystal. Stupid games, stupid prizes. But like her, I’d rather die doing something I love.

[@marksauce2383]

Like bank robbers do.

[@ericligotke3542]

She should have invested the time and effort she took dolling herself up, going on social media, and taking selfies into becoming someone who understands and needs to acclimate to her sorroundings. Trade clicks for safety

[@ericligotke3542]

Edit: alcohol isn’t such a good idea either

[@jojodelima1953]

A passion for the serenity of the peaks. But, those places are unforgiving, and the future of family left behind after an accident should be an important after thought by these adventurers

[@Lando62]

A typical "city person in the outdoors" sad story.

[@travelwithtony5767]

The obsessive need for attention claims another one.

[@paulyoung6129]

Mt Baldy is considered a sacred place by the Native Tribe Indians. Be mindful and respect nature that she offers you

[@carolyounce5810]

Alrhough she seems like quite a gal, it seems like she could have redirected alot of her talents and energy into her children. A standard daily fare of nothing but selfies and self-promotion for a mother if four, well .......

Bla bla bla. Absolutely zero sympathy. She knew the risks, knew people loved her, and still risked hurting them. She succeeded, and died doing what she loved. No tragedy, no sadness from me. Its just life.