Everett, Wash.
Published: Tuesday, July 8, 2008

Hikers rescued off Mount Pilchuck

The area isn't safe for those who aren't trained to deal with winter conditions, a deputy warns.

By Jackson Holtz
Herald Writer

 VERLOT -- Eight people spent Saturday night huddled together in the lookout shelter atop Mount Pilchuck, waiting for help to guide them off the mountain.

Late at night and in fog, they tried four times to find their way down the 5,324-foot peak before calling 911 for help.

That's when officials told the hikers to stay at the peak and wait until after dawn for help.

Everett Mountain Rescue volunteers led the hikers down along a snow-covered hiking trail Sunday morning, Snohomish County sheriff's deputy Duane Sandrin said.

"It's really not safe up there right now unless people have had winter snow-travel training and experience," he said.

No one was hurt but officials warn that without proper training and equipment, the risks are high.

Despite recent warm weather, much of the Mount Pilchuck trail remains covered with snow. Well-worn snow tracks lead hikers in many directions, including the wrong way, Sandrin said.

"It gets all mixed-up up there, so you really have to know what you're doing," he said.

Already this season, 11 people have been rescued off the mountain in three separate incidents, sheriff's Sgt. Danny Wikstrom said.

Many of the eight people rescued Sunday were well-prepared for hazardous conditions, officials said. But some people still venture into the mountains without proper gear.

On July 1, a couple dressed in tennis shoes and shorts became separated on Mount Pilchuck. The man found his way to the trail head, while the woman wound up on the south side of the mountain, Sandrin said. She was found on a logging road.

Although many hikers enjoy the restored fire lookout perched atop Pilchuck and the group Saturday found shelter there, this year it's closed.

Snow last winter damaged part of the railing and it's uncertain if the storms caused additional problems, U.S. Forest Service spokeswoman Adrienne Hall said.

Typically, it's for day use only, she said. Now, it's closed until further notice.

Before hitting any trail, it's a good idea to stop at a ranger station or forest service visitors center to check on trail conditions, she said.

Reporter Jackson Holtz: 425-339-3437 or jholtz@heraldnet.com.
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