72-year-old slips and slides 50 feet onto ‘steep and unstable’ ground, CA rescuers say
A 72-year-old hiker slid 50 feet off a California trail and into “steep and unstable terrain,” fire officials said.
Rescuers rushed to save the stranded woman at 5:21 p.m. Oct. 16 at Griffith Park, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department.
She had been hiking the Bird Sanctuary Loop Trail when she fell off the trail, officials said.
Rescuers said they used a rope and harness to lead her out. She had a minor scratch on her leg and was able to walk with rescuers.
The hiker declined medical treatment from fire officials or ambulance transportation to a hospital.
The Bird Sanctuary Loop Trail is a 1.2-mile hike that runs through a “wooded canyon” and includes a flat dirt path in Griffith Park, according to Outdoor Project.
Griffith Park spans 4,210 acres in Southern California, making it one of the largest city parks with “urban wilderness areas” in the country,the City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks says on its website.
There are 53 miles of trails within the park, according to the city.
Parkgoers can picnic, jog, go horseback riding or visit the Hollywood sign.
Griffith Park is about 7 miles northwest of downtown Los Angeles.
How to be prepared while hiking
If you’re planning to hike, the National Park Service says there are 10 essentials you should take:
Navigation: Pack a map, compass and a GPS system. Make sure you study your route beforehand and understand how to use the tools.
Sun protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat can help protect your skin and eyes from UV rays.
Insulation: A jacket, hat, gloves, raincoat and thermal underwear can help you be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.
Illumination: A flashlight, lantern and headlamp can create light if you get stuck in the dark — and don’t forget to pack extra batteries.
First-aid supplies: It’s a good idea to have a first-aid kit on hand while hiking. Check the expiration date on items before you pack them.
Fire: Matches and a lighter can help start fire to act as an emergency signal in times of need.
Repair kit and tools: Duct tape, a knife, screwdriver and scissors can be helpful if items break during your hike or you need assistance.
Nutrition: You should pack an extra day’s worth of food in case something goes wrong. Park officials recommend having “salty and easy to digest snacks.”
Hydration: You should drink water often and before you feel thirsty if you’re hiking in hot weather. Keeping your body hydrated is “of utmost importance,” park officials said.
Emergency shelter: Packing a tent, space blanket, tarp and bivy can help you be prepared if severe weather breaks out or your plan takes a turn.
This story was originally published October 17, 2023 at 1:30 PM with the headline "72-year-old slips and slides 50 feet onto ‘steep and unstable’ ground, CA rescuers say."
