Manitou Springs, Colorado — A family hiking trip turned tragic after a Colorado father of seven died while hiking one of the state’s most challenging trails alongside his young son during a Cub Scout outing.
Authorities later identified the victim as 48-year-old Nickolas Jogolev, whose sudden death has left behind a grieving wife and seven children.
Medical Emergency Reported on Popular Colorado Trail
The incident happened on Saturday, May 23, at the famous Manitou Incline in Manitou Springs, Colorado.
According to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, emergency crews responded after receiving reports that a hiker was experiencing serious breathing problems while climbing the steep trail.
Officials later confirmed that the man died at the scene despite rescue efforts.
“Sadly, the individual succumbed to their illness and has been pronounced deceased,” the sheriff’s office said in a social media post. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of the individual who passed away.”
The El Paso County Coroner later identified the victim as Nickolas Jogolev.
Wife Says Family Meant Everything to Him
Nick’s wife, Coral Jogolev, described her husband as a loving father whose life revolved around their children.
“His kids were his world,” Coral told. “He’s got the biggest smile on his face. He’s so happy.”
According to Coral, Nick would have celebrated his 49th birthday next week.
She explained that he had joined their 9-year-old son Sasha for a Cub Scout hike on the incline, a tradition their family had participated in for years.
Experienced Hiker Had Prepared for the Climb
The Manitou Incline is widely known as one of Colorado’s most physically demanding hiking trails.
The City of Colorado Springs describes it as one of the state’s “most iconic and challenging hiking trails.”
“Gaining 2,000 feet of elevation in less than a mile via 2,768 steep steps, it offers a heart-pounding workout with unmatched views as your reward,” the city’s website states.
Coral emphasized that Nick was not inexperienced and had properly prepared for the hike.
“He trained for a hike,” Coral said. “I know there’s people who just go and do that incline and they’re not prepared. We’ve done it every year since we’ve been a part of this Cub Scout pack and they’re a great pack. They train for it using the Parker Incline, the Castle Rock Incline.”
Good Samaritans Tried to Help
Coral said a passerby noticed Nick sitting with Sasha near the 900th step of the incline, where he reportedly appeared pale.
After drinking Gatorade, Nick attempted to continue the climb.
Authorities said good Samaritans immediately stepped in to assist him once his condition worsened before emergency responders arrived.
The sheriff’s office confirmed bystanders stayed with Nick and tried to help during the medical emergency.
“If anybody would have been able to save him, they were there. And there was just nothing anybody could do, from what we know,” Coral said.
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Family Faces Difficult Road Ahead
Nick’s death has left his family facing not only emotional devastation but also financial uncertainty.
A GoFundMe created for the family explained that Nick and Coral raised a blended family together, including children with special needs.
The fundraiser stated that Nick was the family’s sole provider, while Coral managed the children’s daily care, medical appointments and therapy transportation.
The fundraiser noted:
“Now, Coral is facing significant financial struggles. She will need help with ongoing bills, daily necessities, child care, and transportation for her kids.”
The family is still waiting for autopsy results to determine the exact cause of Nick’s death.
What are your thoughts on this heartbreaking tragedy? Share your condolences and thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
