As the tempature climbs in the lower elevations the folks at El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office in Placerville, California want to remind the people that there is still snow in the high country. This warning coming in the wake of a high altitude rescue of a father and toddler son duo who got stuck high up on a mountain during a bike trip and required a helicopter evacuation.
Late in the afternoon on Thursday May 21st, the man was out on a mountain bike ride with his 18-month-old son in the area of Freel Peak. At elevations over 10,000 feet, the man found the snow completely blocked the trail. In an attempt to make it back to the dirt he pushed into the snow but he quickly became exhausted. He was not prepared to be out when the sun went down. His son also began to show signs of extreme discomfort leading him to believe his son needed medical attention.
The man called in for rescue and EDSO SAR coordinator, EDSAR Tahoe volunteers, and Echo 1 responded to assist the stranded pair. The father and son were quickly located by the crew of Echo 1 helicopter. Two EDSAR volunteers were flown up to the shoulder of Freel Peak, a landing zone over 10,000 feet. The EDSAR volunteers hiked down to contact the man and his son. Echo 1 was able to air lift them to the South Lake TahoeAirport, where they were treated by South Lake Tahoe Fire.
“This was a team effort, and we would like to thank everyone, including the agencies who participated in this rescue. For everyone who adventures in El Dorado County, remember to be prepared and stay safe.” -El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office
