June 11, 2026 26-265 #17

Lost Hiker, Gem Pass

At 1437 hours, the Team was called to assist a lost backpacker near Gem Pass who initiated a Garmin InReach SOS activation. The subject was reported to have been attempting a multi-night backpack trip from Silver Lake to Mt. Ritter and back to Silver Lake, and didn’t return on the intended date.

Shortly after the subject was contacted via their InReach, a message was received back stating, "I'm without map, yes emergency please I'm very lost with no food". In addition to the initial SOS activation, a location was obtained with the message, placing the subject in the area of Gem Pass, several miles and several thousand feet of elevation gain off of the main trail back to Silver Lake. The subject was advised to hold in position at their current location.

Rescue base was established at the Silver Lake boat launch. Operations deployed several teams on foot to ascend to the subject’s reported location. After 7 miles and roughly 4,000’ of vertical gain, Team 1 made contact with the subject and determined the subject to be able to move down the trail unassisted. After providing food and water, Team 1 began walking the subject back down the trail to Silver Lake. All teams were advised to meet up and continue down together to base.

Team member packing in half of the 2-piece titanium litter in case it is needed.

MOSAR search dog on the trail above Agnew Lake.

All teams returned to base after a 14 mile journey, and paramedics from Mono County Medic 2 thoroughly assessed the subject, who then signed a release Against Medical Advice (AMA). The operation terminated at 2351 hours. IC: Belcher Responders: Many

On-Scene Coordinator: Mono County Sheriff Search and Rescue