Hikers rescued from South Sister after medical issue and hypothermia

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue unit responded to a call for help on Wednesday, Apr. 23, after a hiker began experiencing a medical issue and became mildly hypothermic on South Sister. The call was initiated at 4:45 p.m.

Two males in their 20s, who had traveled from the Philomath area, were hiking South Sister. They parked at Dutchman Flat at the base of Mt. Bachelor and were descending the mountain when they called for assistance.

13 volunteers from the Search and Rescue Medical and Mountain Rescue teams located the hikers at 8:25 p.m. One of the hikers was able to walk out without needing assistance.

The second hiker, who was experiencing the medical issue, was warmed up by Search and Rescue medical personnel. This hiker was then transported in a Cascade rescue sled.

Search and Rescue crews navigated deep, variable snow to bring the hikers to Cascade Lakes Highway by 3:45 a.m. One hiker was transferred to a Bend Fire & Rescue ambulance for further medical evaluation, while the other was taken to his car.

The Sheriff's Office reminds hikers to plan ahead before venturing into higher elevations. Hikers should carry ample food, water and appropriate clothing. Conditions in these areas can change rapidly, especially after sunset when temperatures drop, despite spring-like weather.