LOST HIKERS RESCUED OVERNIGHT IN CUYAMACA

April 29, 2013 (San Diego’s East County) – Two lost hikers are safe following an all-night search and rescue effort.

The hikers called the Sheriff’s Department on Saturday night to report that they were lost on the west side of Cuyamaca Peak, trapped in thick brush without any food or water .  Due to low clouds and fog, helicopters could not fly in the rugged terrain.

Deputies from the Julian Sheriff's Station requested assistance from the Sheriff's Search and Rescue Team. Search teams responded to the Paso Picacho Campground in the Cuyamaca Rancho State Park area Saturday at around midnight to search for the lost hikers.

A total of 26 searchers from Sheriff's Search and Rescue, San Diego Mountain Rescue Team and Border Patrol's BORSTAR team assisted with the search. The two men, 23, were found at 4:45 a.m. yesterday morning. The hikers were thirsty, hungry, but in good condition.

After giving the hikers food and water, search teams guided them out of the area.

The episode points up the importance of carrying food, water, and a cell phone, preferably with GPS, when hiking in remote areas of the backcountry.  Carrying warm clothing, blanket and flashlight are also advisable in case you should become lost or disabled and have to stay out in the elements overnight.