Visiting hiker rescued after fall on Kaua‘i trail

A woman from Virginia was rescued off the Kalalau Trail after a fall near Hanakāpī‘ai Falls on Monday.

Kaua‘i Fire Department’s Rescue 3 aboard Air 1 responded to the incident shortly before 11:25 a.m. When crews arrived on scene, rescuers medically assessed the 26-year-old hiker, provided first aid, and extracted her using a Stokes ladder to transport her to the Hanakāpī‘ai Falls landing zone.

Following their arrival at the landing zone, the visitor was loaded into Air 1, where she was taken to Princeville Airport, where she was transferred to American Medical Response for assessment. American Medical Response personnel then transferred the hiker to a local hospital.

The scene was cleared shortly before 1:10 p.m.

Kaua‘i Fire Department Chief Michael Gibson reminds hikers to take proper precautions before heading out on the island’s trails, particularly when conditions are wet.

“Many of the rescues we respond to involve slips, trips, and falls, and muddy or wet trail conditions can make the terrain extremely slippery,” Gibson said. “Hikers should be prepared for changing conditions, wear appropriate footwear with good traction, stay within their abilities, and avoid taking unnecessary risks. A little preparation before hitting the trail can go a long way toward keeping you and our first responders safe.”

Hikers are encouraged to check weather and trail conditions before heading out, carry sufficient water and necessary supplies, wear appropriate footwear for the terrain, and let someone know their hiking plans and expected return time.

Hikers should also be mindful that conditions can change quickly and adjust their plans accordingly.