Two Hikers Rescued on South Sister
Deschutes County Search and Rescue crews responded after one hiker became hypothermic during a descent from South Sister.
Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue volunteers make their way through deep snow during an overnight mission on South Sister after two hikers called for help Wednesday. Photo courtesy of Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office.
BEND, Ore. — Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue crews brought two hikers to safety early Wednesday morning after one experienced a medical issue and mild hypothermia while descending South Sister.
According to the sheriff’s office, the call for help came in at approximately 4:45 p.m. on April 23.
Officials said two men in their 20s from the Philomath area had traveled to Central Oregon to hike South Sister. They had parked at Dutchman Flat near Mount Bachelor and were making their way back down the mountain when they requested assistance.
Rescue Crews Reached Hikers After Nightfall
Thirteen volunteer rescuers from Search and Rescue medical and mountain rescue teams responded to the scene.
Crews reached the hikers at about 8:25 p.m. One hiker was able to walk out without assistance.
The second hiker was treated and warmed by rescue medical personnel before being transported in a Cascade rescue sled.
Rescuers navigated deep and variable snow conditions overnight, reaching Cascade Lakes Highway with the hikers at approximately 3:45 a.m.
One hiker was then taken by Bend Fire & Rescue ambulance for further medical evaluation. The other was returned to his vehicle.
Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue volunteers assist an injured hiker during an overnight rescue on South Sister after crews navigated deep snow and freezing conditions Wednesday. Photo courtesy of Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office.
Safety Reminder for Hikers
The sheriff’s office reminded hikers to prepare for changing mountain weather conditions, especially in higher elevations.
Officials encouraged outdoor recreationists to carry enough food, water, and proper clothing, noting that while spring weather may be present in lower elevations, temperatures can quickly drop after sunset and conditions can change rapidly.
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