Cuando los Escaladores de Roca Caen a su Muerte

Rock climbing may seem like a niche sport, but it's growing rapidly. More than 7.7 million people already participate in the United States, and gyms across the country are opening at a record pace. But with that growth also come risks. Each year, an estimated 20 to 50 climbers die in North America alone. One-third of all reported accidents occur on the descent, not the ascent. Descending errors, failed rappelling, and unroped climbs are some of the leading causes. So how is it possible that experienced climbers—with the proper equipment and good judgment—end up losing their lives in a fall? Here are four true stories that show how quickly things can go wrong.