Hiker Rescued by Helicopter After Waterfall Fall in Butte County

Updated May 31, 2025
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A hiker sustained⁤ serious injuries after falling 30 feet down a waterfall into a pool ‍in Butte County over Memorial Day weekend. Authorities said the rescue required a helicopter to hoist the individual to safety.

The incident occurred near Feather River Canyon and Camp Creek Falls, close to the area impacted by the 2018 Camp fire. According to officials, the hiker slipped while attempting to photograph the waterfall.

Kevin Soukup, spokesperson for Butte County Sheriff’s Search⁣ and Rescue, stated that the hiker landed on granite rocks before plunging over the waterfall’s edge. Responding to the incident in Pulga, the rescue team determined that the severity of the injuries warranted helicopter extraction.

The‍ conscious hiker was secured in a harness and airlifted⁤ via a 150-foot rope to a ‍landing ‍zone ⁢near Cresta Power House. From⁤ there, Enloe FlightCare transported the individual for further medical ‍treatment. The helicopter flight lasted approximately 30 to 60 seconds.

“This is the riskiest type of rescue that you do,” Soukup said. “Just by nature, helicopters are dangerous.Anytime someone suffers a traumatic injury, you look at the risk and reward and getting them out as quickly as possible via the helicopter was the right decision to make.”

Soukup explained that the three-mile road out of the area would have taken too long for an ambulance.⁤ He added that a helicopter is typically required for traumatic injuries when ground transport exceeds 30 minutes. Cal Fire and‍ Butte County Fire assisted in the rescue operation, ensuring a swift medical transport for the injured hiker after the waterfall fall.

What’s next

Authorities urge hikers to exercise caution near waterfalls and other potentially hazardous terrain, emphasizing the importance of assessing ⁤risks before attempting to take photos or navigate⁣ challenging areas. Further updates on the ⁤hiker’s‍ condition are expected as they receive treatment.