Trapped in Yosemite—Saved by Satellite SOS
Not my story, but I just came across this post and had to share it. It’s a wild reminder that even “prepared” hikers can run into real danger when nature decides to test you. 🌨️🌊
Two hikers planned a scenic trek from MTJ Trailhead to Tenaya Lake, skipping Half Dome (no permit). They checked the weather, packed food, emergency blankets, extra power… everything seemed under control.
The trail up to Clouds Rest was snow-free, but beyond that—knee-deep snow and hidden streams under a melting snowpack (hello spring in the Sierras 😬). They pushed on, thinking it’d clear as they descended…
🌅 By 7PM they were racing the sunset down snowy slopes, less than 3km from the road—when suddenly: flooded rivers everywhere. Fast water, no bridges, darkness closing in. No safe way forward.
🥶 They stopped, layered up with emergency blankets, ate to stay warm, and started using iPhone SOS to find a satellite signal. At 9:45PM they got a message out.
At 1AM, two badass rangers showed up. Led them through three icy river crossings (one up to the thighs!), and brought them out safely. Gave them sleeping bags and even drove them back to their car the next day. Absolute heroes. 🙏
💡 Lessons learned?
• Don’t underestimate spring meltwater
• Always check trail conditions, not just weather
• Pack for survival, not just scenery
• Satellite comms can save your life
📣 Have you ever had a backcountry scare like this?
What’s your go-to emergency gear?
Drop your essentials or wildest hiking moments in the comments 👇
#Yosemite #Outdoor #Hiking #TrailLessons #iPhoneSOS #HikerLife #StaySafeOutThere #WildernessFirstAid #AdventureSmart
