Additional Coverage:
On a sweltering Friday in Scottsdale, Arizona, thirteen hikers, including three children and other family members in town for a reunion, found themselves in peril on the Gateway Loop Trail. Starting their excursion at 7:30 a.m., they later strayed from the path and ran low on water, prompting a rescue operation initiated by the Scottsdale Fire Department just after 10 a.m.
Found several miles in, under a tree in a wash, the hikers had wisely sought early help. Among them, a 10-year-old was airlifted and taken to a pediatric hospital but was reported to be in great condition.
Two toddlers, aged 12 and 18 months, showed signs of heat exhaustion and were transported via a utility terrain vehicle to receive medical care. Additionally, a woman was evacuated using a specialized all-terrain stretcher and taken to the hospital.
The remainder of the group managed to walk back with assistance from the rescue teams. Thanks to the efforts of over 65 firefighters, all individuals rescued are expected to fully recover. The ordeal took place under an excessive heat warning, with local temperatures hitting 108 degrees Fahrenheit.
Fire Captain Dave Folio highlighted the importance of enjoying the trails safely, advising hikers to stay on marked paths and avoid hiking during the hottest parts of the day. “It’s just hot right now,” he remarked, underscoring the challenging conditions.