Two Separate Rescues on Mt. Whitney Aid Three Hikers
November 11, 2025 – Inyo County Search & Rescue officials report that on November 2, 2025, Inyo County Search and Rescue (SAR) was called to assist a hiker experiencing a medical emergency on Mount Whitney. Three SAR members met with CHP Helicopter H-42 (from Fresno) in Lone Pine. One rescuer was flown to Trail Camp, where the hiker was located. While preparing for transport, another hiker nearby requested help after feeling unwell. Both individuals were flown to Lone Pine for evaluation.
On November 7, 2025, SAR was again called to Mt. Whitney for a separate incident. A hiker had left the main trail near the 99 switchbacks and was climbing on the right side of the route when he slipped on icy ground and fell, sustaining injuries.
Two nearby hikers heard his calls for help and made their way to him. One stayed to provide support, while the other descended approximately 3.5 miles to Outpost Camp, where she located someone with a satellite messenger and initiated the rescue. She then hiked back up to rejoin her companion and the injured hiker.
CHP Helicopter H-42 returned to assist, meeting eight SAR volunteers in Lone Pine. One rescuer was flown to Trail Camp, and another was hoisted to the accident site. With the help of the bystanders, the injured hiker was secured in a SKED (a roll-up litter designed for rugged terrain) and hoisted to safety before being flown to Lone Pine.
Safety Reminders for Mt. Whitney:
- Acclimatize properly before heading to high elevations. Altitude-related illness can occur quickly and unexpectedly.
- This time of year poses serious risks. The upper sections of the Main Trail—especially the 99 switchbacks—are covered in ice and extremely slippery. Mt. Whitney is not a casual hike.
- Carry a satellite communication device. Cell service in the area is unreliable and should not be depended on.
- Exercise extreme caution. The 99 switchbacks have recently seen multiple serious incidents—conditions can change fast.
We’d like to thank the hikers who provided aid during the November 7 incident. Your quick actions made a difference. Your down jacket is currently held at the Inyo County Sheriff’s Office.
Inyo SAR is an all-volunteer, unpaid professional non-profit 501(c)(3) organization working under the authority of the Inyo County Sheriff’s Office. Providing search and rescue services to Inyo County residents and visitors is made possible through community donations. Learn more or contribute at: inyosar.com/donate.
Photo credit: CHP - Central Division Air Operations
Source: Inyo County Search & Rescue
