Injured Hiker Rescued from Cold Springs Trail

Helicopter hoists hiker to hospital after knee injury on return from Tangerine Falls

Mar. 14, 2026 at 3:34am

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A male hiker was rescued by helicopter from the Cold Springs Trail in Montecito, California on Friday after injuring his knee while returning from Tangerine Falls. Firefighters located the hiker along the West Fork near the creek and coordinated with the Santa Barbara County Air Support Unit's Copter 3 to hoist him out and transport him to a hospital.

Why it matters

Hiking accidents and rescues are common in the scenic but rugged trails around Montecito, requiring coordination between first responders, search and rescue teams, and air support to ensure the safety of outdoor enthusiasts.

The details

Crews were dispatched just after 12:30 p.m. on March 13 and located the hiker at 1:12 p.m. along the West Fork near the creek. Firefighters then worked with the Santa Barbara County Air Support Unit's Copter 3 to hoist the injured hiker and transport him to a hospital. No additional details about the hiker's condition were immediately available.

  • On March 13, 2026, crews were dispatched to the Cold Springs Trail just after 12:30 p.m.
  • At 1:12 p.m., firefighters located the injured hiker along the West Fork near the creek.

The players

Montecito Fire Department

The local fire department that responded to the injured hiker incident and coordinated the rescue effort.

Santa Barbara County Air Support Unit

The air support team that provided Copter 3 to hoist and transport the injured hiker to the hospital.

Santa Barbara County Search & Rescue

The search and rescue team that also responded to assist with the hiker rescue.

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The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of preparedness, coordination, and quick response from first responders and rescue teams to ensure the safety of hikers in the rugged terrain around Montecito.