Firefighters Rescue Hiker Who Tumbled 50 Feet Down Hillside Near Idyllwild

A hiker slipped and fell down a 50-foot embankment Monday while hiking near Mountain Center, and fire crews hoisted the injured man to safety.

The mishap occurred about 2 p.m. along Badger Verse Ledge, a mountainous location south of Idyllwild, according to the Riverside County Fire Department.

The victim, whose name was withheld, was apparently hiking with others when he lost his footing and took a plunge. Witnesses called 911, and U.S. Forest Service rangers arrived shortly afterward, according to the fire department.

Four county engine crews, numbering around 30 firefighters, also were sent to the location and safely rescued the man, who was taken via helicopter to a hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries, a fire department spokeswoman said.

The entire operation lasted about 90 minutes.

— City News Service.