Hiker rescued from Piestewa Peak in Phoenix

Woman taken to hospital in stable condition after being found about a quarter mile up the trail

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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A hiker was rescued from Piestewa Peak in Phoenix on Sunday morning after becoming overheated. Phoenix Fire Department crews responded to the call around 7:30 a.m. and used a big-wheel operation to safely remove the woman from the trail and transport her to a nearby hospital in stable condition.

Why it matters

Piestewa Peak is a popular hiking destination in Phoenix, but the trails can be challenging, especially in hot weather. This incident highlights the importance of proper preparation and safety precautions when hiking, as well as the critical role of first responders in rescuing those in distress.

The details

According to the Phoenix Fire Department, rescue crews found the woman about a quarter of a mile up the trail and used a big-wheel operation, a stretcher mounted on a single large all-terrain vehicle, to safely remove her from the mountain. She was then transported to a hospital in stable condition.

  • The rescue call came in around 7:30 a.m. on Sunday, March 8, 2026.

The players

Phoenix Fire Department

The local fire department that responded to the emergency call and conducted the rescue operation.

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The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder for hikers to be prepared, stay hydrated, and know their limits when tackling challenging trails like Piestewa Peak, especially in hot weather. The quick response and expertise of the Phoenix Fire Department were crucial in ensuring the hiker's safe rescue and transport to medical care.