Mountain Rescue Team Retrieves Missing Hiker Near Palm Desert: Heroes

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CA — A hiker who went missing Tuesday was located by Riverside County Sheriff's Mountain Rescue team late Wednesday, that agency said.

When the hiker, a 71-year-old woman from Trona, CA, did not check in with her friend, they contacted the sheriff's department Tuesday night. Shortly before 9 p.m., Colorado River Sheriff’s Station deputies began their search.

The friend shared her last known whereabouts in the Big Maria Mountains, near Powerline Road and Midland Road, near unincorporated Blythe.

According to Sgt. Jeremy Klemp, the hiker was an experienced outdoorswoman who shared her planned route and location with a friend before embarking on her hike.

"As nightfall approached, she found herself low on water and still several hours from her vehicle," Klemp said. "Deputies deployed a drone to aid in the search but could not locate her."

Due to weather conditions, the department’s helicopter was grounded. Authorities then contacted the Riverside Mountain Rescue Unit (RMRU) for assistance. They worked overnight, scouring trails to find the missing hiker.

Team member Eric Holden shared a picture of the moment with Patch, and over Instagram.

"It was a great day today helping those in the wilderness," he wrote. "Great subject, she wanted to hike out instead of airlift and refused to let us carry her pack. Just a little overdue and miscalculated water needs."

As the rescuers said, the woman, who was not named, did not require medical attention and returned to her vehicle with minimal assistance.

"The hiker credited her preparedness for the successful outcome," Sgt. Jeremy Klemp said. "She conserved water, did not hike after dark, and carried appropriate clothing and gear for an overnight stay."

This incident highlights the importance of proper preparation when hiking in remote areas. The Riverside 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.

"Thanks to the hiker’s preparedness and the swift response of rescue teams, this search ended successfully," Klemp said.