Hypothermic Pacific Crest Trail Hiker

April 12, 2026
Apache Peak, San Jacinto Mountains
Mission 2026-15

Written by: Will Pendleton

At 1748, Riverside County Sheriff’s Office (RSO) received a request for aid for a disoriented Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) hiker near Apache Peak. The subject was wet, low on food, and reporting signs consistent with mild hypothermia. She reported a history of autism and Raynaud’s phenomenon. She was instructed to establish shelter and remain in place. Sheriff’s Aviation was unavailable due to weather but remained on standby.

At 1821, Riverside Mountain Rescue Unit (RMRU) was activated by the Riverside Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team (SERT). Team members assembled at 1945 at the Lake Hemet sheriff’s substation, which served as the Command Post (CP). Following a 2015 briefing, two teams were deployed to approach the subject via separate routes.

Team T101, led by Alex, took a shorter route via Pine Springs Ranch to the PCT. Team T102, led by Dave K., ascended via Spitler Peak Trail toward Apache Peak. Conditions worsened with elevation, including steady rain, reduced visibility, and wind gusts up to 40 miles per hour along Apache Ridge.

T102 reached the PCT at 2256 and made contact with the subject at 2337. She was found inside a wet tent, despondent. A verbal medical assessment was conducted. Dry insulating layers and a waterproof shell were provided, and she changed into dry clothing. The team provided food and assisted with packing.

The subject began ambulating but reported dizziness after approximately 20 meters. Her pack was removed and redistributed among rescuers, after which she was able to continue with minimal assistance. Upon reaching the PCT, visual contact was established with Team T101 via headlamps, and the teams consolidated.

At that time, the subject’s pack was noted to be excessively heavy for long-distance travel. The team reduced the load by discarding approximately 3 liters of excess water. A secondary medical assessment was initiated by T101 personnel but was abbreviated due to hazardous wind conditions along Apache Ridge.

The combined teams began descent via Spitler Creek Trail, making periodic stops for hydration, nutrition, and reassessment. At approximately 0150, the subject again reported lightheadedness. As a precaution, two rescuers were sent ahead to the trailhead to stage a litter and coordinate with the rescue vehicle in the event the subject’s condition worsened.

After rest, the subject was able to ambulate independently for the remainder of the descent. The team reached the Spitler Peak Trailhead at approximately 0340, where the subject was transferred to Cal Fire and American Medical Response (AMR) personnel.

All RMRU personnel and equipment were accounted for, and the team returned to the sheriff’s station for debrief.

RMRU Members Involved: (David Altenburg, David Bever, Jon Butler, Alex Cochran, Nathaniel Desforges, Ed Gelabert, Dave Kosmal, Will Pendleton)

Other Agencies Involved: (Riverside County Sheriff’s Office (RSO), Cal Fire, American Medical Response (AMR))