Distressed hikers rescued on Kalalau Trail Thursday
LĪHU‘E — Personnel from the Kaua‘i Fire Department rescued a 44-year-old Texas visitor and a 45-year-old Texas visitor from the Kalalau Trail on Thursday, July 24.
Kaua‘i Fire Department Chief Michael Gibson said, “We’re grateful this rescue ended safely, but every Air 1 deployment puts our crews at risk, especially in remote areas like Kalalau. When emergencies turn out not to require medical care, it raises serious concerns. We urge hikers to know their limits, be prepared, and use good judgment before requesting evacuation. Our priority is life safety, and resources must stay available for those truly in need.”
According to a preliminary report, first responders received a report of a distressed hiker shortly after 1:50 p.m.
Personnel with Līhu‘e Fire Station aboard Air 1 responded to the incident.
First responders arrived on scene at Kalalau Beach and discovered the distressed hikers with an alleged ankle injury and alleged heatstroke. The distressed hikers were loaded into the helicopter at the Kalalau Beach landing zone, where they were taken to Princeville Airport. Upon landing at Princeville Airport, both hikers refused further medical attention.
The scene was cleared shortly after 3:30 p.m.
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