Phoenix, January 11, 2026
A woman was airlifted from Camelback Mountain in Phoenix after injuring her lower leg while hiking. The Phoenix Fire Department’s rescue team utilized a helicopter for her safe evacuation. This highlights the ongoing challenges faced by hikers on the popular mountain and the necessity for emergency preparedness. The injured hiker was transported for treatment, while authorities remind the public about hiking safety guidelines to prevent such incidents.
Phoenix
Hiker Airlifted from Camelback Mountain After Injury
A woman was rescued and hospitalized after sustaining an injury while hiking on Camelback Mountain in Phoenix on Saturday morning, January 10, 2026. Technical rescue teams from the Phoenix Fire Department responded to reports of the injured hiker around 10:45 a.m. MST. The hiker suffered an injury to her lower extremity, which prevented her from continuing her descent, necessitating the immediate intervention of emergency services.
The rescue operation involved the Phoenix Fire Department’s Firebird 10 helicopter, which was used to airlift the woman safely off the mountain. This rapid air evacuation highlights the critical role specialized rescue teams play in responding to emergencies in challenging terrain like Camelback Mountain.
Details of the Rescue Operation
Camelback Mountain, a prominent landmark in Maricopa County, is known for its rugged trails and can present significant challenges to even experienced hikers. Upon receiving the distress call, the Phoenix Fire Department mobilized its technical rescue units. The use of a helicopter for extraction is a standard procedure for mountain rescues where ground access is difficult, dangerous, or time-consuming, allowing for swift transport to a medical facility.
The injured hiker was transported to a local hospital for further evaluation and treatment following the successful airlift. Details regarding the specific nature of her injuries or current condition beyond being hospitalized were not immediately released.
Increasing Awareness for Mountain Safety in Arizona
This incident on Camelback Mountain is one of several recent mountain rescues across Arizona, underscoring the importance of preparedness and caution when engaging in outdoor activities. The state’s diverse landscapes, while beautiful, can pose significant risks. For instance, in October 2025, a rock climber was airlifted to safety from a Prescott-area mountain after a 15-foot fall resulted in a leg injury. Also in October 2025, two individuals were struck by lightning on Humphreys Peak in Flagstaff, requiring emergency assistance.
Camelback Mountain itself has been the site of multiple rescue operations. In December 2025, a male hiker was stranded overnight on the Echo Canyon Trail. Rescuers provided him with a cell phone, water, blankets, and food, delaying the rescue until daylight due to poor visibility, steep terrain, and high winds. That same year, in March 2025, a hiker experienced a medical emergency on Echo Canyon Trail and later died after being airlifted. Heat-related issues have also prompted rescues, with multiple hikers requiring assistance on Camelback Mountain in June 2025, one of whom was in critical condition. Another incident in June 2025 saw a hiker rescued from Echo Canyon Trail after sustaining a head injury.
Essential Hiking Safety Guidelines for Arizona Trails
To mitigate risks and ensure a safe hiking experience, authorities and outdoor experts consistently advise hikers to follow several key safety recommendations for Arizona’s trails. These guidelines are crucial for both residents and visitors exploring the state’s natural beauty.
Pre-Hike Preparation
Before embarking on any hike, it is vital to know your chosen route thoroughly. Hikers should check trail maps, understand the length and difficulty, identify any particularly tricky sections, and plan a turnaround point. It is also recommended to download maps for offline access, as cell phone signals can be unreliable in remote areas.
Informing someone of your plans is another non-negotiable safety measure. This includes telling a reliable person where you are going, your planned starting time, who is accompanying you, and when you expect to return. Establishing a check-in time after completing the hike ensures that if you are overdue, someone will know to raise an alarm.
During the Hike
The time of day for hiking in Arizona, especially in warmer months, is critical. Experts advise starting early, ideally before 10 a.m., to avoid the intense heat that quickly develops on trails. Monitoring personal physical condition and the weather is also paramount.
Proper hydration and nutrition are essential for safe hiking in Arizona. Hikers should carry plenty of water, often more than they anticipate needing, and drink before feeling thirsty. Bringing electrolytes or salty snacks can also help maintain energy levels and prevent dehydration, which is a leading cause of hiking deaths in Arizona.
Appropriate gear is also fundamental. This includes wearing good, broken-in hiking shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, light-colored and breathable clothing, and applying sunscreen. Carrying a fully charged phone, along with a backup power source, is advisable. Hiking with a group of friends offers additional safety, as individuals can monitor each other and assist in emergencies. If hiking solo, heightened awareness and preparedness are even more crucial.
Staying on sanctioned trails is important not only for personal safety but also for preserving Arizona’s delicate ecosystems and wildlife.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened on Camelback Mountain on Saturday, January 10, 2026?
A woman was rescued and hospitalized after sustaining an injury while hiking on Camelback Mountain in Phoenix on Saturday morning, January 10, 2026.
What kind of injury did the hiker sustain?
The hiker sustained an injury to her lower extremity, which prevented her from continuing her hike.
How was the injured hiker rescued?
Technical rescue teams from the Phoenix Fire Department, using their Firebird 10 helicopter, airlifted the woman off the mountain.
Are mountain rescues common in Arizona?
Yes, mountain rescues are not uncommon in Arizona, with incidents occurring on various peaks, including Camelback Mountain. The state’s diverse terrain can pose risks, leading to multiple rescue operations annually.
What are some essential hiking safety tips for Arizona trails?
Essential hiking safety tips for Arizona trails include knowing your route, informing someone of your plans, hiking early in the day, carrying plenty of water and snacks, wearing appropriate gear, and staying on sanctioned trails.
Key Features of Mountain Hiking Safety
| Feature | Description | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Know Your Route | Research trail maps, understand length and difficulty, and plan a turnaround point. Download maps for offline access. | State-level |
| Inform Someone | Share hiking plans (location, start time, companions, expected return) with a reliable person. | State-level |
| Time of Day | Hike early in the morning, ideally before 10 a.m., especially in Arizona to avoid intense heat. | State-level |
| Hydration & Nutrition | Carry ample water and drink frequently before feeling thirsty. Bring electrolytes and snacks to prevent dehydration. | State-level |
| Appropriate Gear | Wear good hiking shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, light-colored and breathable clothing, and apply sunscreen. Carry a charged phone with a backup. | State-level |
| Hike with Company | Hiking with a group is safer; if solo, heightened awareness and preparedness are crucial. | State-level |
| Stay on Trails | Remain on sanctioned trails for personal safety and to protect delicate ecosystems. | State-level |
| Check Weather | Monitor weather forecasts before and during your hike. | State-level |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
