Rescue of Injured Hikers 

March 7, 2025 – Riverside County Sheriff’s Department officials report that on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 3:07 p.m., deputies from the Hemet Sheriff’s Station responded to the trailhead leading to Tahquitz Peak in the city of Idyllwild regarding the report of injured hikers in treacherous conditions. The two adult victims requested medical assistance and rescue. 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.

The Riverside Sheriff’s Office wants to remind citizens that mountainous regions can experience rapid and unexpected changes in weather conditions. It is essential to always check the weather forecast and be prepared for the elements.

Reporting Supervisor: Sergeant Frank James

File # D250600025

Source: Riverside County Sheriff’s Department