8 Hikers Rescued in Sedona After Getting Lost in Snowstorm
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8 Hikers Rescued in Sedona After Getting Lost in Snowstorm

Search Teams Locate Stranded Hikers Near Devil’s Bridge and Guide Them Back

SEDONA, AZ — Eight hikers were rescued Tuesday evening after getting lost near Devil’s Bridge as a sudden snowstorm covered the trail, making it difficult to return to safety.

The Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office received a call around 5 p.m. from a woman hiking with her four children. One of the children had separated from the group without a phone, and as the snowfall increased, the family was unable to find their way back to their vehicle. The missing daughter eventually made it to the trailhead but was unable to contact the rest of the family.

As search teams began looking for them, another call came in from a second group of lost hikers. That group had come across the stranded family but was also unable to navigate back. The eight hikers decided to stay in place while waiting for rescuers. Search and rescue teams located them and brought them back to the trailhead by 8 p.m.

No injuries or exposure-related issues were reported. Nearly 15 volunteers assisted in the rescue operation, ensuring the hikers got off the trail safely.

“Once again, the YCSO Search and Rescue teams prove how incredibly important they are to the community,” said Sheriff David Rhodes in a press release. “YCSO sends a huge thank you to all of the volunteers who are called out in every rescue.”

Authorities remind hikers to check weather conditions and be prepared for sudden changes, especially in winter.