UPDATE: A dramatic helicopter rescue unfolded yesterday at Point Reyes National Seashore, where two female hikers were airlifted from a precarious cliff ledge after becoming stranded. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) H-30 helicopter swooped in following a call for urgent air support from local rescue teams.
The rescue operation began shortly after 1900 hours on October 29, 2023, as the CHP crew spotted the stranded hikers on a steep rock formation just south of Pelican Lake. A paramedic executed a precise one-skid landing to retrieve the hikers, who were then airlifted to safety and transferred to a ground ambulance for medical treatment.
This particular stretch of coastline poses significant challenges for ground rescues due to its steep terrain and lack of accessible routes. The Coast Trail in this area runs high above rocky coves and beaches, making aerial support not just preferable, but often necessary.
The CHP highlighted the complexity of rescues in this region, stating, “Incidents like this frequently require aerial hoists or technical rope work,” emphasizing the logistical difficulties that emergency crews face when responding to calls from Point Reyes.
Rescue officials are using this incident as a critical reminder for hikers to prepare for rapidly changing coastal weather conditions. They urge hikers to plan ahead, check current conditions, and ensure they return before dark to avoid risky situations along unstable cliffs. The National Park Service echoes this advice, stressing the importance of informing someone of your route before venturing into remote areas.
Rescue teams from Marin County Fire, the National Park Service, and Marin Search and Rescue collaborated with the CHP during this operation. While details about the hikers’ conditions have not been disclosed, officials continue to monitor their recovery.
As the forecast for coastal hikes in the coming days remains unpredictable, those planning to hit the trails are urged to stay informed about weather updates and to adhere strictly to established trails.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that can arise in such beautiful, yet treacherous, natural landscapes. Hikers are encouraged to prioritize safety to minimize the need for emergency interventions in the future.
