Phoenix crews rescue injured hiker, airlifted bicyclist from South Mountain

Two separate incidents highlight busy weekend of mountain rescues across Phoenix and Scottsdale

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:06am

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Phoenix firefighters handled two separate Sunday rescues on South Mountain, helping an injured hiker near the Pima Canyon trailhead and airlifting a bicyclist from the Corona de Loma trail. Both incidents highlight a busy weekend of mountain rescues across Phoenix and nearby Scottsdale as more people hit popular Valley trails.

Why it matters

South Mountain is a popular outdoor recreation area for Phoenix residents, but the increase in rescues underscores the risks hikers and cyclists face on the trails, especially as more people venture outdoors. These incidents raise questions about trail safety, emergency response capabilities, and how the city can better prepare for the growing number of outdoor enthusiasts.

The details

In the first incident, firefighters responded to an injured hiker near the Pima Canyon trailhead on South Mountain. In a separate rescue, crews airlifted a bicyclist from the Corona de Loma trail on the mountain. Both victims were transported to local hospitals for treatment.

  • On Sunday morning, Phoenix firefighters responded to the two separate rescue calls on South Mountain.
  • The incidents occurred as more people have been hitting popular hiking and biking trails in the Phoenix area.

The players

Phoenix Fire Department

The local fire department that handled the two rescue operations on South Mountain.

South Mountain

A 16,000-acre park located just south of downtown Phoenix that is a popular destination for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities.

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What’s next

Phoenix officials are expected to review the incidents and evaluate if any additional safety measures or resources are needed to handle the growing number of rescues on South Mountain and other local trails.

The takeaway

These rescues highlight the importance of trail safety and preparedness as more Phoenix residents seek outdoor recreation, especially in popular areas like South Mountain. The city may need to consider ways to better manage the increased traffic and potential risks on its hiking and biking trails.