Search for hiker missing on Mount Whitney ends happily. Here’s how he was found
Cold, tired, injured, but alive, a Texas man missing after going on a hike to the summit of Mount Whitney was found Sunday night, the National Park Service announced.
“A high-elevation search and rescue operation ended happily this evening when ground searchers successfully located missing hiker Edward Lee Alderman, 33, in the vicinity of Timberline Lake, several miles west of the summit,” the release from Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks stated.
“Mr. Alderman is reported to be alert, despite injuries, fatigue, and exposure to sub-freezing temperatures.”
Alderman, 33, of Austin, was last seen about 4:15 p.m. Thursday as he was leaving the summit of Mount Whitney, according to the Park Service.
“Mr. Alderman was located with the help of a tip from hikers who reported having heard a voice in the vicinity of Timberline Lake early this morning. Helicopter 552 from Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks has evacuated Mr. Alderman from the wilderness and is delivering him to medical care.”
Attempt to summit, pair separated
Alderman reportedly had set out with the intention to reach the summit of Mount Whitney, which is at an elevation of 14,505 feet, then descend to Trail Camp in one day.
The National Park Service said he began the day with a hiking partner but the two got separated.
Helicopters led the search Saturday, according to the Park Service, with ground crews deployed Sunday once a late-season winter-type storm cleared the area.
Cautionary note for wilderness hikers
“We are thrilled and relieved to report that Mr. Alderman is alive, safe, and on his way to definitive medical care,” said Dave Fox, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks incident commander.
“With large numbers of people heading into the wilderness this summer, we urgently remind everyone to prepare carefully for their trips and understand that there are real risks out there. We know that Mr. Alderman and his loved ones have been through a lot in the last few days and we’re so glad he’s going home.”
This story was originally published May 23, 2021 at 8:03 PM.
