On the morning of July 27th, 2026, the Skamania County Sheriff’s Office coordinated a Search and Rescue (SAR) response for an injured hiker on the Hamilton Mountain Trail within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.
The Sheriff’s Office received a 9-1-1 call reporting that an adult hiker had suffered an apparent ankle injury after losing footing on the trail. Due to the nature of the injury, the individual was unable to safely hike out and requested emergency assistance.
The Skamania County Sheriff’s Office activated Search and Rescue resources through the Washington State Emergency Management Division (EMD). Skamania County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel responded to the scene, hiked to the patient’s location, and provided medical assessment and treatment.
Members of the Skamania County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Team subsequently reached the patient and conducted a Stokes basket evacuation along the Hamilton Mountain Equestrian Trail. The hiker was safely transported to the trailhead and transferred to awaiting EMS personnel for transport to a medical facility for further evaluation and treatment.
The Skamania County Sheriff’s Office would like to thank the dedicated volunteers of the Skamania County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue Team and Skamania County EMS for their professionalism, teamwork, and commitment to safely assisting those in need throughout our community.
The Sheriff’s Office reminds visitors that trails within the Columbia River Gorge can be steep, uneven, and physically demanding. Hikers are encouraged to wear appropriate footwear, carry adequate water and supplies, monitor changing weather conditions, and be prepared for emergencies before venturing into remote areas