LIVINGSTON, MT — Two climbers stranded in technical terrain were rescued from Mount Cowen in the Absaroka Range on Sunday, the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office reported Tuesday.

Both climbers were near the summit, without the ability to ascend or descend, the Sheriff’s Office said. Gallatin County helped in the rescue after receiving an assist request from the Park County Sheriff’s Office.

The Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office was unable to launch a helicopter due to nightfall. The Park County Sheriff’s Office worked with the Montana National Guard and US Air Force in an attempt to rescue the climbers, as overnight temps were expected to dip into the teens.

But due to weather conditions, the climbers were forced to bivouac on the face of the mountain overnight.

On Monday morning, the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Heli Team and Central Helicopters were able to rescue the unidentified climbers by utilizing a short-haul technique. Both climbers were put into harnesses and short-hauled to safety.

Mount Cowen rises to 11,217 feet and is considered by some climbers to be the Grand Teton of the Absarokas.

Sheriff Dan Springer said those seeking outdoor opportunities this time of year should be prepared for any weather conditions, including low overnight temperatures. Having the ability to contact help with cellular phones or satellite communication devices greatly increases the speed and efficiency of rescue efforts.