A 25-year-old American hiker was rescued from Lion’s Head on Saturday afternoon after a fall that left her stranded and injured along the popular Cape Town trail.
Story Summary:
- A 25-year-old American hiker was rescued by helicopter after slipping on Lion’s Head trail and suffering injuries.
- Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) responded rapidly, coordinating air and ground rescue efforts to reach the stranded hiker.
- Authorities highlighted safety and collaboration efforts for Table Mountain ahead of a busy festive season.
US hiker slips on Lion’s Head: Here’s how rescuers responded
Responding swiftly, a combined team from Wilderness Search and Rescue (WSAR) and Western Cape Government EMS airlifted the hiker from a steep section of the mountain, bringing her to safety and providing urgent medical care.
The hiker, who had been descending from the summit with friends, lost her footing near the ladders section of the trail, suffering injuries that made it impossible to continue.
Rescue teams, both on foot and airborne, were dispatched immediately after the group quickly contacted emergency services.
The Western Cape Government Health and Wellness EMS, in partnership with Air Mercy Service (AMS), sent a helicopter to Lion’s Head, where rescuers were hoisted down to reach the hiker.
After receiving treatment from a paramedic, she was carefully moved along the trail to an accessible spot for helicopter extraction.
She was flown to a nearby landing zone and transported by ambulance to a local hospital, where her condition is reported as stable.
By late afternoon, the operation concluded with all personnel safely off the mountain.
Safety measures for hikers on Table Mountain trails
The incident has heightened attention to hiker safety on Table Mountain, with South African National Parks (SANParks) highlighting security efforts throughout Table Mountain National Park.
Increased law enforcement and ranger patrols are in place, particularly after recent reports of robberies and attempted car break-ins along popular hiking routes.
“We urge all park visitors to stay vigilant, plan their hikes for daylight hours, and save our emergency numbers,” SANParks advised in a statement.
As part of its festive season strategy, SANParks has launched a Safety and Awareness Campaign in partnership with SAPS, City of Cape Town Metro Police, Working on Fire, and neighbourhood watch groups.
This campaign includes patrols, increased surveillance, and educational outreach to enhance safety and protect the thousands of tourists and locals who enjoy Cape Town’s iconic natural spaces each year.
Visitors are also encouraged to adhere to posted safety tips, ensuring an enjoyable and secure experience within the park.
