Story and photos by Miriam Raftery
June 18, 2017 (Cleveland National Forest) – Days after the Sheriff’s department issued an advisory urging hikers to avoid the Three Sisters Falls and Cedar Creek Falls trails during the current excessive heat warning, the department had to rescue eight hikers in distress on the Three Sisters Falls trail in Cleveland National Forest Saturday afternoon.
Two of the hikers were airlifted out of the steep terrain, another was transported by ambulance and five others were evaluated on scene and released, Times of San Diego reports.
The trails are very steep, with no shade for long stretches, with loose gravel and on the Three Sisters Falls route, a rope rappel section and boulders to scramble over or around. Even on cool days, the trails are recommended only for those in top physical condition who bring along plenty of water. Cell phones often won’t work in the canyon areas, often making it difficult to call for help when needed.
So far this year, the Sheriff’s Search and Rescue volunteers and ASTREA helicopters have responded to 24 distressed hiker calls at Three Sisters Falls and Cedar Creek Falls, which are both beautiful and treacherous for those venturing into these areas unprepared.
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