Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Helicopter Rescues Three After 18-Year-Old Falls on Howe Sound Trail

8/2/2026

42 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Crews rescued three hikers from the Howe Sound Crest Trail on July 14.
The hikers used printed Google Maps directions that estimated the 17-mile hike at over five hours, but the trail takes 12-14 hours.
After an 18-year-old fell nine feet and injured his tailbone, the hikers called 911 and were hoisted by helicopter.
Lions Bay Search and Rescue advised using AllTrails, Granite, Gaia GPS, Avenza Maps and checking weather.

History

Historical Context

In January 1996 an avalanche on Mount Hood forced the U.S. Forest Service and Oregon State Police to mount a rescue that saved five skiers, lost two, and deployed three helicopters and a National Guard Chinook. The event echoes Mount Hood’s long accident record—over 130 deaths by 2002 and the deadly 1986 school-group freeze—while visitor numbers have quadrupled since 1990, keeping search-and-rescue funding critical.

1 of 2

Story summary

Crews rescued three hikers from the Howe Sound Crest Trail on July 14.
The hikers used printed Google Maps directions that estimated the 17-mile hike at over five hours, but the trail takes 12-14 hours.
After an 18-year-old fell nine feet and injured his tailbone, the hikers called 911 and were hoisted by helicopter.
Lions Bay Search and Rescue advised using AllTrails, Granite, Gaia GPS, Avenza Maps and checking weather.

1 / 2