Lost Hiker Remote Rescue Sparks Hiking Safety Tips In Riverside County

PALM SPRINGS, CA —Days after three lost hikers were rescued near the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, officials shared tips on how to properly prepare for a hike in the Coachella Valley. Dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke may occur if hikers don't hike properly prepared during the extreme heat wave during Coachella Valley's summer months, officials warn.

Over the weekend, three lost hikers were rescued in the middle of the night from a trail near the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. The remote rescue occurred at Willow Creek Trail in the San Jacinto Wilderness area.

It was after 9 p.m. when the hikers reported their situation, but due to winds, a rescue helicopter was not an option, according to Riverside Mountain Rescue. One hiker had suffered an apparent case of food poisoning, the rescue group said.

"The three lost hikers were east of Saddle Junction, along King Trail," a spokesperson for the mountain rescue said. They were without food, water, shelter or warming layers and one was confirmed to be ill.

"Rescuers arrived at the hikers' location just before 1 a.m., via the Devil's Slide Trailhead," according to their report. "There, they performed medical assessments and provided the necessary rest, warming, and resources for each hiker."

All were safely back down the mountain, to Humber Park by 5:45 a.m.

"At that time, subjects were evaluated by medics and transported by Riverside County Sheriff's officers back to their personal vehicles at the Palm Springs Tram.

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Hiking in the Coachella Valley, and in the mountains and valleys that surround it, is not to be trifled with.

"A few symptoms to look out for when experiencing any heat-related illness may include dizziness, headache, nausea, muscle cramps, weakness, confusion, or fatigue," Palm Springs police stated.

When you go hiking, remember these tips:

• Hike in the early morning.
• Carry plenty of water.
• Drink regularly.
• Apply sunscreen.
• Wear a hat and lightweight clothing.
• Hike with a partner.
• Bring a fully charged phone.
• Most importantly, turn back if conditions become too difficult.

The mountain rescue team consisted of Command Post: David Bever, Field Team: Alex Cochran, Matt Frenken, Nathaniel Desforges. This is an all-volunteer mountain rescue team that specializes in high-angle rock, helicopter, and snow-and-ice rescues in Riverside County. Learn more at rmru.org.