Hikers rescued on South Sister

A mother and her two sons from California ran into trouble on South Sister on Friday, July 23, and search and rescue teams turned out to help them.

According to Deschutes County Sheriff's Office reports, at approximately 6 p.m. Deschutes County 911 received a phone call requesting assistance from three stranded hikers on the South Sister just below Prouty Glacier, near the summit.

Sharla Erich, 45, Robert Erich, 22, and Stephen Erich, 20, started up Green Lakes trail at approximately 10 a.m. The group then ascended South Sister. The hikers became stranded in the area known as Hodge Crest. This area is located between Prouty and Lewis glaciers.

The hikers advised that they did not have enough equipment, clothing, food or water for the conditions and were unable to cross the ice field leading to the climbers' trail.

The hikers indicated that they were all in good physical condition and needed assistance.

Initially 24 members of the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office, U.S. Forest Service, and Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue responded to the Devils Lake Trailhead.

Seventeen search and rescue team members initially ascended multiple trails to the location of the stranded hikers. The initial search and rescue team located the hikers at approximately 1 a.m. Due to the conditions on the mountain (ice on trails) and the overall condition of the hikers and rescue crews, it was deemed safer to remain on the mountain for several hours for a rest period until early morning.

All search and rescue teams and the hikers remained overnight on the mountain. The hikers were provided clothing, food and shelter for the rest period. Search and rescue teams returned to the trailhead with the hikers at approximately 9:30 a.m. on Saturday.

All searchers and the hikers returned in good condition. The hikers were reunited with family members at the trailhead.

Thirty-five Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue Members and Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Deputies were involved in the rescue operation.

The Deschutes County Sheriff's Office encourages people to be prepared when traveling into wilderness areas. Always let someone know what your proposed route will be, be cognizant of how much daylight you have and plan your trips accordingly. Always carry a light source in case you do run into darkness, a map, a compass, GPS, adequate food and water and other essentials to ensure your safety.