DESCHUTES COUNTY, Ore. (Mar. 22, 2026) — A 67-year-old hiker from California was rescued after experiencing a medical emergency Thursday afternoon on a popular trail at Smith Rock State Park, authorities said.
Deputies with the Deschutes County Sheriff’s Office responded just after noon on March 19 to the park’s Misery Ridge Trail, where the man fell ill while hiking. The incident prompted a coordinated response involving Search and Rescue volunteers, Redmond Fire & Rescue and Oregon State Park rangers.
Fire personnel provided medical care at the scene, while Search and Rescue volunteers used a wheeled litter to transport the man down the rugged trail. He was then transferred to a waiting ground ambulance for further evaluation and transport, officials said.
Authorities did not release details about the nature of the medical emergency or the man’s condition.
The sheriff’s office said the response highlights the importance of interagency cooperation in Central Oregon’s outdoor recreation areas, crediting the efforts of emergency responders and trained volunteers who assist both residents and visitors.
Officials also emphasized the region’s preparedness, noting that well-trained rescue teams are critical to ensuring timely aid during emergencies in remote and challenging terrain.
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