Hiker rescued on Cactus to Clouds Trail in Palm Springs

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. — A male hiker needed assistance on Wednesday afternoon on the Cactus to Clouds trail in Palm Springs after becoming dehydrated and weak, according to Palm Springs Fire.

Fire officials said the hiker was located more than a mile up the trail from the Palm Springs Art Museum, where the Cactus to Clouds route begins.

“There is one subject needing help over a mile up from PS Art Museum, Sheriff’s aircraft en route to hoist off the trail,” Palm Springs Fire said. The patient was described as dehydrated and feeling weak but not injured.

A sheriff’s aircraft conducted a hoist rescue from the rugged trail, bringing the hiker down safety. The man was evaluated by the fire department and paramedics.

The Cactus to Clouds trail climbs from the Palm Springs desert floor toward Mount San Jacinto, gaining roughly 10,000 feet in elevation. The lower portion can be particularly dangerous during periods of extreme heat.

Heat-related emergencies have previously prompted rescue operations on the trail. California State Parks has warned that extreme temperatures in the Palm Springs area can create serious risks for hikers, including dehydration, weakness, dizziness and heat-related illness.

The rescue remains developing. Officials have not released the hiker’s identity or additional information about their condition.

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.