Bend, OR – Two hikers were safely rescued Wednesday night after one experienced a medical issue and mild hypothermia while descending South Sister in Central Oregon.
According to the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office, Search and Rescue teams were dispatched around 4:45 p.m. on Wednesday, April 22, after receiving a call for help from hikers on the mountain. The pair, both men in their 20s from the Philomath area, had parked at Dutchman Flat near Mount Bachelor and were heading down when the emergency occurred.
Rescue crews, including 13 volunteers from SAR medical and mountain rescue teams, reached the hikers around 8:25 p.m. Officials said one hiker was able to walk out самостоятельно, while the second was transported in a rescue sled after being treated and warmed by medical personnel.
Teams navigated deep and variable snow conditions during the operation, significantly slowing travel times. The group ultimately reached Cascade Lakes Highway around 3:45 a.m. Thursday. One hiker was transferred to a Bend Fire & Rescue ambulance for further evaluation, while the other was released to return home.
Officials emphasized that conditions in higher elevations remain unpredictable despite spring weather in lower areas. Rapid temperature drops and snow-covered terrain can quickly create dangerous situations for unprepared hikers.
The Sheriff’s Office is reminding outdoor enthusiasts to plan ahead and carry adequate food, water, and proper cold-weather gear when venturing into mountainous areas.
