Pacific Crest Trail hiker was so dehydrated he couldn’t go on. Rescuers stepped in

A hiker was stuck on a 2,650-mile trail and couldn’t continue because he was dehydrated.

The hiker set out on the Pacific Crest Trail and made it near Basin Peak, about 50 miles northwest of Lake Tahoe, the California Highway Patrol said. The hiker couldn’t continue the trek because he was dehydrated.

Rescuers rushed to help the man. California Highway Patrol assisted Truckee Fire by flying a helicopter into the remote area.

“The crew was able to locate a landing zone near the patient, where they were able to make contact,” officials said in an Aug. 20 news release.

The hiker was taken to Tahoe Forest Hospital for treatment. Officials did not disclose the man’s name or condition at the time.

Rescuers said the incident serves as a reminder for hikers to carry extra water and be prepared.

“Factors such as elevation gain, trail exposure to the sun and physical ability can drastically increase the need for more water,” California Highway Patrol said. “Plan ahead and take more water than you think you will need.”

The Pacific Crest Trail stretches from Mexico to Canada. It weaves through California, Oregon and Washington. Thousands of hikers make the trek every year.

This story was originally published August 23, 2022 at 10:37 AM with the headline "Pacific Crest Trail hiker was so dehydrated he couldn’t go on. Rescuers stepped in."