Glencoe CA…On June 4, 2024, at about 7:30 PM, the Calaveras County dispatch center received a 911 call from a hiker requesting assistance in the Glencoe area. The hiker stated he had been camping with a friend for three days down along the North Fork of the Mokelumne River. As they were walking out of the extremely steep canyon, the friend began experiencing severe fatigue and muscle failure.

Calaveras County’s highly skilled and dedicated Volunteer Search and Rescue Team was promptly activated and responded to the distress call. The team traversed the steep canyon and located the two hikers near the river on June 5th at 1:30 AM. Following a medical assessment, the decision was made to remain with the hikers, providing them with the necessary time to rehydrate and consume high-calorie food to replenish their energy.

Upon request, the California Highway Patrol Air Division accepted the request for assistance in extracting the two hikers from the canyon. At first light, the searchers were able to assist the hikers along a three-quarters-mile trek to a suitable location where the helicopter could access them. The two hikers were transported to the C. B. Hobbs Baseball Field in Mokelumne Hill, where they were met by members of the Mokelumne Hill Fire Department for a second medical evaluation. The hikers both refused medical attention.

An after-action interview was conducted with both of the hikers (an 18-year-old male and a 19-year-old male). Both hikers said they overestimated their abilities and underestimated the difficulty of the hike out of the canyon. Their initial plan was to take two days to hike out of the canyon; however, after the first day, it was apparent they were not going to make it out of the canyon without assistance.

Hiking is an amazing way to stay connected with nature and remain physically active. However, it is paramount to know your limits to ensure your safety. It is good practice to assess your fitness levels and select a hike that matches your abilities. Additionally, variables such as weather conditions, terrain, and elevation can all impact the difficulty of the hike. During your hikes, you should make it a priority to stay hydrated. Packing enough food and carrying essential equipment such as maps, first-aid kits, and emergency supplies could mean the difference in an emergency. By knowing and respecting your limits while hiking, you can minimize the risk to yourself and maximize your enjoyment of nature and outdoor adventures.