A hiker in Butte County had a frightening experience over the Memorial Day weekend when he fell about 30 feet down a waterfall. The incident occurred near Feather River Canyon and Camp Creek Falls, a popular hiking area. While trying to capture a photo of the waterfall, the hiker slipped and fell onto granite rocks before plunging into a pool below.
Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, but due to the severity of his injuries, they decided that a helicopter rescue was necessary. The hiker, who has not been publicly identified, was conscious but in serious condition. Rescuers attached him to a harness at the end of a 150-foot rope and lifted him out of the water with the helicopter.
The entire rescue operation took less than a minute, and the man was flown to a landing zone near Cresta Power House. From there, he was transferred to Enloe FlightCare for further medical treatment. Kevin Soukup, a spokesperson for Butte County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue, noted that the road to the area was about three miles long, making it impossible for an ambulance to reach the hiker in time.
This incident highlights the risks associated with outdoor activities, particularly in rugged terrain. Authorities remind hikers to be cautious and aware of their surroundings, especially when taking photos near steep drops. The rescue operation involved collaboration between the Butte County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue, Cal Fire, and Butte County Fire, showcasing the teamwork involved in emergency responses in such challenging situations.