Whittlehorn, California – Two hikers are lucky to be alive after a harrowing rescue operation on California’s remote Lost Coast Trail this past weekend. The incident unfolded on Saturday afternoon, when one hiker fell over 100 feet down a steep cliff, clinging to a “near vertical” bluff in the King Range National Conservation Area.
The two hikers, who were off the main trail, found themselves in a dangerous situation when one of them lost their footing and slid down the cliffside. Injured and unable to move, the hiker was left barely holding on about 60 feet above an even more unstable drop. As they awaited help, the situation grew increasingly dire, with the hiker unable to access the area by land due to the rugged terrain.
The Shelter Cove Fire Department, accustomed to dealing with the tough conditions of the Lost Coast, immediately called in the US Coast Guard for assistance. The Coast Guard’s rescue operation involved a mix of specialized equipment, including a helicopter, boat, jet ski, and rescue swimmers. The Coast Guard team quickly sprang into action, with the first priority being the hiker who was seriously injured, including a dislocated shoulder and heavy bleeding. Using a 160-foot hoist, they were able to lift the hiker to safety and rush them to a nearby airport, where emergency medical workers were waiting.
Despite the critical nature of the operation, the Coast Guard team didn’t stop there. They quickly returned to the cliff to rescue the second hiker, who had been unharmed but was stranded in the same perilous spot. The operation’s complexity was compounded by loose cliffside conditions, dead trees, and limited power in the helicopter, which was running low on fuel. Thankfully, a Cal Fire truck brought additional fuel just in time to allow the team to complete the rescue.
This intense rescue required coordination between six different agencies and involved specialized equipment that would be difficult to manage in less trained hands. Experts say the area around Lost Coast Trail is known for its difficult terrain, with high tide making some sections completely inaccessible. The Shelter Cove Fire Department strongly urges would-be hikers to stick to marked trails and come prepared for possible delays, as navigating these wild, undeveloped areas can be dangerous for those without proper experience.
The successful rescue is a testament to the extensive training and expertise of the 20 rescuers, most of whom are volunteers, who worked tirelessly to bring the hikers back to safety. It’s a reminder that while California’s coast offers breathtaking views, it also demands respect from those brave enough to explore its beauty.
