Rescue: Lost Hiker at Smith Rock

At approximately 9:17 PM on March 27, a page went out for Deschutes County Search & Rescue volunteers requesting the Ground and MRU teams based on a SOS beacon activation at Smith Rock State Park. The two teams separated, based on the location of the beacon ping, uncertain whether the subject was in a technical area. MRU climbed two separate routes near Morning Glory Wall while the Ground team approached the top from Misery Ridge Trail.

Based on the terrain and unknown location of the subject, a second page went out at 10:52 PM for additional MRU members and the Air Ops/Drone team. Our teams continuously utilized sound sweeps in attempt to accurately locate the subject, which seemed imprecise at times due to the terrain and wind that would shift the sound of the subjects response.

The MRU team made initial contact at the very top of the route on a near-flat surface. The Ground team made contact shortly after. A medical assessment was conducted, which ruled out any medical concerns. All volunteers and subject returned to the trailhead at approximately 2 AM.

We thank the Deschutes County Patrol Deputies who attempted to locate the subject while SAR was en route.