Injured Hiker Rescued from Gaviota Wind Caves

By edhat staff

Santa Barbara County firefighters rescued an injured hiker from the Gaviota Wind Caves on Saturday evening.

At 5:41 p.m., crews responded to the area for a hiker with an injury to a lower extremity while hiking with family and could not make it out.

Santa Barbara County Search and Rescue (SBCSAR) teams along with State Parks, AMR and County Fire responded to assist the hiker down the trail from the first cave area. 

The hiker was assisted by ground resources using a stokes basket and a wheel. The patient was transported to the hospital by ground ambulance.

No aircraft were used in this rescue.

SBCSAR wants to remind hikers on our trails to stay within their abilities and to turn back before needing emergency assistance. Please also take plenty of water for both yourself, those with you and your four-legged companions and to be prepared to stay out longer than anticipated with food and extra clothing to stay warm.