Distressed hiker rescued from Kalalau Trail; first responders expedite response because of rapidly diminishing daylight

Kaua‘i first responders rescued a 45-year-old Texas man Oct. 16 as daylight was rapidly fading from the Garden Isle’s iconic Kalalau Trail on Nā Pali Coast along the island’s northwest shore.

“Our crews acted decisively and safely to ensure that both the hiker and our personnel would not be exposed to the hazards of an overnight stay in remote terrain,” said Kaua‘i Fire Department Fire Chief Michael Gibson. “Their sound judgment and teamwork reflect the level of professionalism and care our department strives to provide every day.”

Kaua‘i Fire Department and Air 1 personnel made the critical decision to expedite the response because of the quickly approaching darkness and hiker’s remote location.

The team initiated a timely air rescue operation to avoid leaving the Texas visitor and rescuers stranded overnight in rugged terrain. Personnel with Līhu‘e Fire Station aboard Air 1 responded to the incident.

First responders received a report of a distressed hiker shortly before 5:45 p.m. Thursday after the man activated the SOS alert via a satellite phone. He reported vomiting and severe cramping.

Rescue personnel arrived at the Hanakoa landing zone and discovered the distressed hiker, who was suffering from alleged stomach pain, and safely loaded him into the helicopter to be transported to Princeville Airport.

The Texas man refused further medical attention upon landing at the North Shore airport.

First responders cleared the scene shortly before 6:30 p.m.

Kaua‘i Fire Department reminds all hikers to plan trips with daylight and weather in mind, carry reliable communication devices and turn around early if fatigue or medical issues arise.