Swift Response: ICSSAR Locates Missing Hikers In Parowan Wilderness

Iron County Sheriff’s Search & Rescue (ICSSAR) swiftly responded to a distress call at Valentine Peak in Parowan around 4 pm, where two hikers were reported missing. Corporal Hilleger, the first responder, wasted no time and began hiking towards the hikers' last known GPS location.

By 5 pm, the full ICSSAR team had arrived and commenced their ascent up the trail. Meanwhile, Corporal Hilleger managed to establish contact with the lost hikers, who were found approximately 400 feet off the trail, facing harsh weather conditions they were ill-prepared for.

Quick thinking and resourcefulness were crucial as Corporal Hilleger provided emergency supplies to the hikers, including blankets and clothing. The search and rescue volunteers, aided by Corporal Hilleger, navigated a route to reach the stranded hikers efficiently.

Around 5:30 pm, the team successfully located Corporal Hilleger and the hikers, beginning the descent. Prior to the journey back, the hikers were outfitted with dry clothing, hand and feet warmers, and gloves. One of the hikers, suffering from cold and wet feet, received special attention as the team ensured her comfort for the descent.

By 6:15 pm, the team safely returned to the trailhead parking lot, grateful for the successful rescue operation. Reflecting on the incident, the ICSSAR emphasizes the importance of carrying proper gear when engaging in outdoor activities, especially during unpredictable weather conditions at higher elevations.

This incident serves as a reminder for all outdoor enthusiasts to be prepared for changing conditions and to prioritize safety. Timely communication from the hikers played a pivotal role, allowing the rescue team to intervene before conditions worsened.