October 26, 2025 25-630 25-42

Mutual Aid Inyo County Sheriff’s Office Recovery of Deceased Hiker

Repost of Inyo County Sheriff Search and Rescue’s post:

Just before 1:00 pm on Saturday, October 25, 2025, Inyo County Search and Rescue (SAR) received a report of a possible fatality on Mount Whitney in the area known as the 99 Switchbacks off the Main Trail, where a hiker had fallen from the trail and off a cliff.

Inyo SAR quickly assembled three rescuers who met CHP Helicopter H-80 from Apple Valley at the Lone Pine Airport at 3:30 PM. Unfortunately, high winds prevented the helicopter from approaching the subject’s location, and the recovery was postponed.

On Sunday, October 26, the fatality was confirmed. Several rescuers from Mono County Search and Rescue assisted our team by hiking approximately seven miles to the decedent’s location. They prepared and lowered the decedent to a more accessible area. However, due to ongoing high winds, evacuation of the decedent was again postponed.

On Monday, October 27, weather conditions improved enough for H-80 to attempt the recovery again. With the assistance of three Inyo SAR rescuers, the decedent was safely evacuated from the mountain and placed into the care of the Inyo County Coroner.

We ask that readers please be respectful in their comments. It is best not to make assumptions regarding the events leading to the recovery. Family and friends of the victim may be following this post, and some comments could be hurtful. Our sincere condolences go out to the family and friends of the subject.

We would also like to remind everyone that Mount Whitney is already experiencing winter conditions, including snow and ice, very low temperatures, and frequent windstorms. The Main Trail is no longer a casual hike but a mountaineering endeavor. The 99 Switchbacks are especially icy and slippery and should not be attempted without proper equipment, experience, and preparation.

Many thanks to Mono County Search and Rescue for their invaluable support.“

For MOSAR’s Operation on Sunday:

IC: Belcher Ops Leader: Haugh Responders: Lipman, Quiring, Thompson