Injured Hiker Rescued After 36 Hours Trapped in East Bay Ravine

The hiker suffered a broken ankle and was finally airlifted to safety by a CHP helicopter after a 12-hour search.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 6:54pm

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph of a helicopter hovering over a forested ravine, with soft, blurred pools of warm light and color creating a dreamlike, emotional scene of a rescue operation.A dramatic helicopter rescue operation saves an injured hiker trapped in a remote East Bay wilderness area.Danville Today

A hiker in the Las Trampas Wilderness Regional Preserve in Danville, California fell down a ravine and suffered a broken ankle, leaving them trapped for 36 hours before being rescued by East Bay Regional Parks District authorities and the Contra Costa Search and Rescue team.

Why it matters

Hiking accidents and injuries in remote areas can be life-threatening if the victim is unable to call for help or be located quickly. This incident highlights the importance of proper safety precautions, emergency preparedness, and efficient search and rescue operations in wilderness areas.

The details

On Sunday, March 22, EBRPD police and firefighters responded to reports of a missing hiker in the Las Trampas Wilderness Regional Preserve. The victim had fallen down a ravine and suffered a broken ankle, and had no cell phone to call for help. After a 12-hour search, the hiker was finally located and rescued by a CHP H30 helicopter.

  • On Sunday, March 22, EBRPD authorities responded to reports of a missing hiker.
  • The hiker was trapped in the ravine for approximately 36 hours.

The players

East Bay Regional Parks District

The regional park district that manages the Las Trampas Wilderness Regional Preserve where the incident occurred.

Contra Costa Search and Rescue

The search and rescue team that assisted in locating the trapped hiker.

CHP H30 Helicopter

The California Highway Patrol helicopter that was used to airlift the injured hiker out of the ravine.

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What’s next

The victim is currently recovering from their injuries sustained during the incident.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder for hikers to always be prepared with proper safety gear, emergency supplies, and a way to call for help when venturing into remote wilderness areas.