Two hikers stranded near the summit of Lone Peak were rescued on Monday, Sept. 7, after sustained winds grounded helicopter support and necessitated an overnight ground operation, according to a September 8 report.
Salt Lake County Search and Rescue (SLCSAR) stated that crews were dispatched around 10:49 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 6, after the hikers reported they were cold and suffering from altitude sickness near the top of the peak. While SLCSAR initially staged at Bells Canyon expecting the Utah Department of Public Safety (DPS) to fly crews closer to the hikers, sustained winds made flight impossible. DPS aircraft were unable to reach the mountain or shuttle rescuers to the lower meadow.
The team moved its command post to the Peak View Trailhead. Draper Fire Department personnel drove rescuers from that location to Jacobs Ladder, from which crews hiked the remaining distance. While waiting, the two hikers sought shelter between rocks to block the wind and received clothing, food, and water from other people on the mountain.
Rescuers reached the hikers around 5 a.m. Monday. After providing headlamps, extra layers, hydration, and food, the group began hiking down together. Draper Fire assisted in bringing the hikers back to the Peak View Trailhead. The hikers were reported to be in good condition despite being tired. All responding personnel were off the mountain by approximately 10:15 a.m., according to SLCSAR.
SLCSAR issued a safety advisory for hikers as fall approaches, noting that while valley temperatures may reach 90 degrees, nighttime readings at 11,000 feet can drop into the 30s and feel colder due to wind. The agency also noted that shorter days make extra headlamp batteries an important addition to packs. Hikers can report backcountry emergencies by calling 911.
