Central Point Hiker Rescued from Mt. McLoughlin

Mt. McLoughlin, Oregon- Jackson County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue (SAR) successfully rescued a 40-year-old Central Point man from Mt. McLoughlin late last night after he became lost during a solo hike. The man, whose identity has not been released, was located and assisted off the mountain at approximately 9:30 PM, following a coordinated search effort.

The man set out to climb the 9,493-foot peak on the morning of Saturday, September 28. Conditions during the day were warm, with temperatures in the 80s, but as evening approached, the temperature dropped to a low of 29 degrees, posing serious risks for anyone unprepared for the cold.

The hiker summited Mt. McLoughlin but lost the trail during his descent, inadvertently veering into untracked terrain. After several hours of traversing difficult volcanic rock, he contacted his girlfriend to inform her of his situation. By that time, he had nearly exhausted his food and water supplies, and his cell phone battery was running low. At 5:00 PM, he texted her a request for help, which she relayed to the Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon (ECSO) Dispatch. Jackson County SAR was immediately notified.

Using cell phone data, SAR teams were able to locate the man’s position. Search teams advised him to stay put until help arrived. By nightfall, he was experiencing dehydration and fatigue, having only been dressed in a cotton t-shirt and shorts. He had run out of food and water and was suffering from cramping due to the cold conditions.

Rescue teams hiked from Highway 140, navigating dense foliage and rugged lava fields to reach the stranded hiker. After locating him, a SAR volunteer physician evaluated his condition. Though fatigued and dehydrated, he was deemed able to walk out of the area with assistance after receiving water and high-energy snacks.

By 12:30 AM, the hiker had safely returned to his car at the Pacific Crest Trail trailhead and was able to drive himself home.

Jackson County SAR Sergeant Shawn Richards emphasized the importance of preparation when hiking Mt. McLoughlin, cautioning that the mountain, though visible and seemingly approachable from the Rogue Valley, can present challenging conditions. Richards advised hikers to carry more water than expected, avoid hiking alone, and be equipped with proper navigation tools, including maps. He also recommended wearing moisture-wicking clothing in layers to stay warm, as well as bringing a wind shell to protect against the cold.

Sgt. Richards also commended the hiker for following instructions to stay put, noting that it significantly improved the safety and success of the rescue operation.

Jackson County SAR thanked the volunteers who participated in the search and rescue mission.