Search and Rescue mounts overnight operation after hiker falls on Pine Valley Mountain

ST. GEORGE — Multiple Search and Rescue teams were dispatched for an overnight operation in rough terrain after a hiker fell on Pine Valley Mountain.

The scene of a Search and Rescue operation conducted in Pine Valley Mountain Wilderness, Utah, June 19, 2022 | Photo courtesy of the Washington County Sheriff Search and Rescue, St. George News

At approximately 5:20 p.m. on Saturday, Washington County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue team began operations to retrieve a stranded man who sustained possible leg and back injuries after he fell while hiking, said Sheriff’s Office liaison Sgt. Darrell Cashin.

The injured man was located by a Life Flight helicopter just after 6 p.m. in Anderson Canyon, southwest of New Harmony, but the pilot was unable to land due to high wind speeds and rough terrain, Cashin said. Because of this, Search and Rescue deployed multiple teams to travel different routes.

In addition, a group of horseback riders offered to take rescuers to the site. The equestrian team did not make it to the man but five other responders did after 5 1/2 hours of hiking, Cashin said, adding that they spent the night at his side, treating him and keeping him warm.

A Utah Department of Public Safety helicopter successfully transported the injured man and three Search and Rescue personnel away from the site at approximately 8:45 a.m. Sunday, Cashin said. The two remaining responders hiked back.

The man was evaluated by Gold Cross paramedics but refused ambulance transport and opted instead for a ride to the hospital from family members in a personal vehicle, Cashin said.

Cashin said the operation concluded around 2 p.m.

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