Hiker Airlifted from Camelback Mountain After Collapse

Phoenix first responders rushed to the scene after reports of a medical emergency on the Cholla Trail.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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A hiker on Camelback Mountain in Phoenix, Arizona was airlifted to the hospital in extremely critical condition after collapsing on the Cholla Trail. Other hikers attempted CPR before first responders arrived, but the man was experiencing a life-threatening emergency.

Why it matters

Camelback Mountain is a popular hiking destination in Phoenix, but the trails can be challenging and pose risks, especially for unprepared or unfit hikers. This incident highlights the importance of hiking safety and the need for quick emergency response when medical emergencies occur on the mountain.

The details

Around 1 PM on February 7th, the Phoenix Fire Department received a call about a medical emergency on the Cholla Trail, about three-fourths of the way up Camelback Mountain. Other hikers found the man apparently unconscious, possibly after a bee sting, and attempted CPR before first responders arrived around 1:30 PM. The man was experiencing a life-threatening condition and was airlifted off the mountain in a Phoenix police helicopter.

  • The emergency call came in around 1 PM on February 7th, 2026.
  • First responders reached the man about three-fourths of the way up the Cholla Trail around 1:30 PM.

The players

Phoenix Fire Department

The local fire department that responded to the emergency call and coordinated the rescue effort.

Phoenix Police Department

Provided a Firebird helicopter to airlift the critically ill hiker off Camelback Mountain.

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What’s next

The hiker was transported to a nearby hospital in extremely critical condition. The cause of his medical emergency is still under investigation.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of hiking preparedness and the need for quick emergency response on Camelback Mountain. Hikers should be aware of the risks and ensure they are physically fit before attempting challenging trails.