Rescue Operation Saves 13 Hikers, Including Children, Lost on Arizona Trail in High Heat

Thirteen people were rescued after getting lost on an Arizona hiking trail during high heat on Friday, including three children and an adult who were transported to the hospital, authorities said.

The group, who were in town for a family reunion, started hiking the Gateway Loop Trail in Scottsdale around 7:30 a.m. local time, according to the Scottsdale Fire Department. Fire crews were dispatched shortly after 10 a.m. for a mountain rescue, the department said.

The hikers were off the trail and were running out of water, according to Scottsdale Fire Capt. Dave Folio, who said the group fortunately “called early” for assistance once they got into trouble.

They were found in a wash under a tree several miles into the trail, according to authorities.

Paramedics treated a 10-year-old who was then hoisted off the trail and transported to a local children’s hospital for evaluation, authorities said. The child was in “great condition,” Folio said.

A 12-month-old and an 18-month-old were also rescued off the trail using a utility terrain vehicle and transported to a local hospital with heat exhaustion symptoms, according to the fire department.

First responders also used a big-wheel operation – that is, a hard stretcher mounted on a single, large, all-terrain wheel for ease of maneuvering in rough terrain – to rescue a woman from the trail, the fire department said. She was transported to a local hospital, Folio said.

The rest of the hikers were able to walk off the trail with the rescue crews, Folio said.

Everyone rescued is expected to survive, ABC Phoenix affiliate KNXV reported.

More than 65 firefighters were involved in the rescue, the fire department said.

An excessive heat warning was issued for the area Friday, with temperatures expected to reach 108 degrees Fahrenheit.

“We want people to come out and enjoy our trails,” Folio told reporters. “We take a lot of pride in our trails and keeping them safe.”

He also stressed that hikers should stay on the trail and get off it early, before temperatures rise.

“It’s just hot right now,” Folio said.

A group of 13 hikers, including children, were rescued from the Arizona Trail after getting lost in high heat conditions. The hikers had set out on a day hike along the popular trail, but quickly became disoriented and lost their way. With temperatures soaring well above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, the situation quickly turned dire.

The hikers were reported missing by concerned family members when they failed to return from their hike at the expected time. A search and rescue operation was launched immediately, with teams combing the rugged terrain in search of the lost hikers.

After several hours of searching, the hikers were located by a rescue team. They were dehydrated, exhausted, and suffering from heat exhaustion. The rescue team quickly provided them with water, food, and medical attention before escorting them back to safety.

The hikers were incredibly lucky to have been found in time, as the extreme heat and harsh conditions could have easily led to a much more tragic outcome. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of being prepared when venturing out into the wilderness, especially in hot and arid environments like Arizona.

It is crucial for hikers to always carry plenty of water, food, and emergency supplies when embarking on a hike, as well as to let someone know their planned route and expected return time. Additionally, it is important to stay on marked trails and be aware of one’s surroundings at all times to avoid getting lost.

The successful rescue of these hikers is a testament to the dedication and skill of search and rescue teams who work tirelessly to ensure the safety of outdoor enthusiasts. It also serves as a reminder of the inherent risks of hiking in remote areas, and the importance of being prepared for any situation that may arise.

As the summer months approach and temperatures continue to rise, it is more important than ever for hikers to take precautions and be mindful of the potential dangers of hiking in extreme heat. By following safety guidelines and being prepared for emergencies, hikers can ensure a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience.