LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – As temperatures climb at lower elevations, please remember that there is still snow in the high country. Late in the afternoon on Thursday, May 21, a man was out on a mountain bike ride with his 18-month-old son in the area of Freel Peak. At elevations over 10,000 feet, he found the snow completely blocked the trail. Trying to make it back to the dirt, he pushed into the snow, but he quickly became exhausted and was not prepared to be out when the sun went down. His son also began to show signs of extreme discomfort, leading him to believe his son needed medical attention.
An El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue (EDSAR) coordinator, Tahoe volunteers, and Echo 1 helicopter responded to assist. The survivors were quickly located by the crew of Echo 1, and they coordinated with EDSAR to develop a plan. Two EDSAR volunteers were flown up to the shoulder of Freel Peak, a landing zone over 10,000 feet. They hiked down to contact the man and his son. Echo 1 was able to air lift them to the Lake Tahoe Airport, where they were treated by South Lake Tahoe Fire Rescue.
This was a team effort, and EDSAR would like to thank everyone, including the agencies that participated in this rescue. For everyone who adventures in El Dorado County, remember to be prepared and stay safe.
