Bishop, CA – Five members of the China Lake Mountain Rescue Group spent several days this week training in the eastern Sierra, testing their endurance and skills under extreme cold-weather conditions near Cirque Peak.
According to the group, the team began their overnight exercise near Cottonwood Lakes Pass at roughly 11,000 feet before summiting Cirque Peak, which rises to 12,900 feet. The training emphasized teamwork, winter survival techniques, and preparedness for upcoming rescue operations during the cold season.
Temperatures during the mission dropped to the low 30s with wind gusts reaching up to 60 miles per hour, officials said. Despite the conditions, four of the five team members successfully reached the summit, marking the event a success in preparation for future high-altitude rescues.
The Kern County Sheriff’s Office praised the effort, calling it a vital step in ensuring teams are ready for real-world emergencies across California’s rugged mountain terrain.
This training is part of a continuing series of exercises aimed at improving readiness for winter search-and-rescue missions throughout the Sierra Nevada.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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