Hiker, 71, missing overnight in Southern California mountains located
A 71-year-old woman who was forced to spend a night in the rugged Big Maria Mountains near the Colorado River was safely located Wednesday, authorities announced.
Identified only as a resident of Trona, the 71-year-old, reportedly an experienced outdoorswoman had, fortunately, shared her planned route with a friend before taking off on the March 11 excursion.
Some five hours after her scheduled return, the hiker’s concerned friend phoned authorities with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office for help.
Just before 9 p.m. that night, deputies from the Colorado River Sheriff’s Station searched the area of Powerline and Midland roads in an unincorporated area near Blythe. Weather conditions would not allow the use of a helicopter and while deputies deployed a drone, they were unable to locate the woman.
“As nightfall approached, the hiker found herself low on water and still several hours from her vehicle,” according to a RCSO news release.
The following morning, March 12, members of the Riverside Mountain Rescue Unit took up the search and located the woman just before 8 p.m. in good condition.
“She did not require medical attention and returned to her vehicle without assistance,” the release noted. “The hiker credited her preparedness for the successful outcome. She conserved water, did not hike after dark, and carried appropriate clothing and gear for an overnight stay.”
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office reminds outdoor enthusiasts to always:
- Inform someone of their planned route and expected return time.
- Carry sufficient water for the duration of the hike.
- Wear and pack appropriate clothing for changing conditions.
- Be prepared for unexpected situations, including overnight stays.