YCSO Urges All Hikers To Fully Prepare For Outings In Summer Heat

Published on July 14, 2025

Some recent incidents in Yavapai County have highlighted the need for proper planning and extreme caution if you plan to hike this summer. 

On Thursday, July 10th, shortly before 6 pm, Yavapai County Sheriff's Office deputies responded to a report of an unresponsive female hiker on Badger Springs trail near Black Canyon City. Deputies arrived and found a 63-year-old woman from California deceased. In the initial investigation, it appeared that she was attempting to return to the trailhead when, tragically, she collapsed approximately a quarter mile from her vehicle. Currently, no foul play is suspected. The Sheriff's office extends our condolences to her family and friends.

Also on that Thursday afternoon, Yavapai County Sheriff's Office deputies and Yavapai County Verde Search and Rescue teams (VSAR) responded to a report of two lost hikers near Devil’s Bridge Trail near Sedona. It was reported that they had run out of water and had taken a wrong turn. When VSAR arrived, the lost hikers had made their way back to the trailhead and were safe; however, it was then reported that several other hikers needed help closer to Devil’s Bridge. The SAR teams hiked up to, aided, and rescued five hikers in different groups along the way, walking them to the closest vehicle and driving them back to the trailhead. All the hikers were suffering from heat-related issues but thankfully did not need further medical attention.

According to the National Weather Service, the temperatures in the Sedona area that day were over 100 degrees, which is not uncommon in the summer months. Please be aware that on the exposed trail with little shade and the sun reflecting off the rocks, the temperatures can soar much higher. The Sheriff’s Office urges all hikers to plan carefully before you decide to enjoy the beautiful high desert trails of Yavapai County, especially on days of extreme heat warnings. Make sure the health condition of everyone in your group is appropriate for the conditions. Consider only hiking early in the morning or in the late afternoon. Understand the route you are taking so you don't get caught out later than you expect.  And please ensure you have enough water, electrolyte/hydration mixes, salty snacks, and other emergency supplies, including head lamps or flashlights.

Please learn more by reading this article from the US National Park Service - "Beat the Heat: Prevent Heat-Related Illnesses" at https://www.nps.gov/articles/heat-illness.htm.

Thank you to the well-trained Yavapai Search and Rescue teams who helped get these hikers off the trail safely.