Woman's Body Recovered After Fall During Hike Near Bridge to Nowhere

Tragic incident highlights dangers of hiking in Angeles National Forest amid high water levels.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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A Los Angeles County rescue team recovered a woman's body from the San Gabriel River on Sunday after she fell during a hike near the Bridge to Nowhere trail in the Angeles National Forest near Azusa. The woman was swept away by the raging current and did not survive.

Why it matters

The incident serves as a tragic reminder of the hazards hikers can face in the Angeles National Forest, especially with high water levels and swift currents following recent weather conditions. It underscores the importance of exercising extreme caution and heeding safety warnings when venturing into these remote areas.

The details

According to the San Dimas Mountain Rescue Team, a frantic runner approached them near the trailhead, reporting that a young mother had fallen into the river at the second crossing and been swept away. Emergency responders from the Los Angeles County Fire Department, Air Operations, and Sheriff's Department were called in to assist with the search and recovery efforts.

  • The incident occurred early Sunday morning, March 2, 2026.

The players

San Dimas Mountain Rescue Team

A local rescue team that responded to the incident and recovered the woman's body from the San Gabriel River.

Los Angeles County Fire Department

Emergency responders who assisted with the search and recovery efforts.

Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department

Law enforcement agency that also helped with the incident response.

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What they’re saying

“This is a devastating reminder of how dangerous the East Fork and Bridge to Nowhere Trail can be right now, especially with swift, high water from recent conditions. Multiple crossings are required, and even experienced hikers can be caught off guard.”

— San Dimas Mountain Rescue Team (Social media post)

What’s next

The rescue team urged hikers to avoid the East Fork and Bridge to Nowhere trail until water levels drop and conditions become safer.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the importance of exercising extreme caution and heeding safety warnings when hiking in the Angeles National Forest, especially in areas with high water levels and swift currents that can pose a serious threat to even experienced outdoor enthusiasts.