Off-Route Hikers Stranded Near the Summit of Boundary Peak, NV
At 2320 hours the Team was called to assist with a mutual aid request from the Esmeralda County Sheriff's Office for a pair of stranded hikers at approximately 12,000 feet on the east side of Boundary Peak, the highest point in Nevada.
It was reported that they were unable to continue. They also stated there were no injuries in the party. Rescue base was established at the intersection of Queen Canyon Road and Highway 6.
Rescue operations deployed a team of two from Base at 0145 hours with a Polaris Ranger, one of the Team’s off-road-capable vehicles, to the start of the trailhead. After completing the lengthy access route and with the benefit of early morning light, Team 1 met with both subjects at 0700 hours.
The moon was bright on the hike in to the subject location.
A high-elevation sunrise.
Guiding the subjects back to the trail.
Early morning hike out to the trailhead.
Both were provided with food, water, and assistance with navigation for their return to their vehicle at the Trail Canyon Saddle Trailhead. The area they were located in was steep, loose and difficult to maneuver in.
Team 1 split up so that one member could accompany the subjects while the other retrieved the Ranger for transport. Both members returned to base at 1225 hours. The operation was terminated at 1423 hours on Saturday August 9.
IC: Rhoads, Belcher Ops: Haugh Responders: Huizingh, Baron
On-Scene Coordinator: Mono County Sheriff Search and Rescue