The hikers were traveling along the Tahquitz Mountain trail on Saturday, March 1, when they suddenly plummeted approximately 800 feet down a snowy cliff. They called 911, stating they were "injured badly and needed help." A helicopter was sent to rescue the two individuals, but due to 45 mph winds, the rescuers failed in their attempt.
Later that day deputies from the Hemet Sheriff’s Station responded to the trailhead leading to Tahquitz Peak. Deputies and rescue personnel established a Command Post at the Idyllwild Fire Protection District building. A search team, including medically trained personnel, hiked into the worsening weather conditions and located both injured hikers. The hikers were stabilized and outfitted with warm-weather gear to withstand high winds, freezing temperatures, rain, and snow. Due to the adverse weather conditions, rescue operations were not feasible.
Mutual Aid from several other county search teams assisted with the rescue, including those from Sierra Madre, Orange County, San Diego County, San Bernardino County, and Los Angeles County. On Monday, March 3, 2025, the Riverside Sheriff’s rescue helicopter, along with the assistance of CalFire’s rescue helicopter, was able to hoist the hikers out safely. They were treated at a local hospital for moderate to severe injuries. Both hikers are expected to make a full recovery.
Here's a report from KCAL News:
And here's some raw footage from the rescue:
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Check out our online trail guides:
- Glacier National Park: HikinginGlacier.com
- Grand Teton National Park: TetonHikingTrails.com
- Rocky Mountain National Park: RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
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