Texas visitors rescued from Kalalau Trail

Two Texas visitors were rescued Thursday off the Kalalau Trail.

According to a Kaua‘i County press release, personnel Kaua‘i Fire Department’s Līhu‘e Fire Station aboard Air 1 responded to reports of distressed hikers shortly after 1:50 p.m. When they arrived at Kalalau Beach, crews found 44-year-old and 45-year-old visitors complaining of an alleged ankle injury and alleged heatstroke.

The distressed hikers were loaded into the helicopter Air 1 at the Kalalau Beach landing zone, where they were taken to Princeville Airport. Upon landing at Princeville Airport, both hikers refused further medical attention.

“We’re grateful this rescue ended safely, but every Air 1 deployment puts our crews at risk, especially in remote areas like Kalalau,” said Kaua‘i Fire Department Chief Michael Gibson. “When emergencies turn out not to require medical care, it raises serious concerns.”

Gibson urges hikers to know their limits, be prepared, and use good judgment before requesting evacuation.

“Our priority is life safety, and resources must stay available for those truly in need,” the chief said.

The scene on Thursday was cleared shortly after 3:30 p.m.