Family of Three, Including 3-Month-Old Baby, Rescued From Mountains After 9-Mile Hike

Texas DPS

A family hike in the scenic Texas mountains nearly ended in tragedy for one family. While out hiking, they realized that they hadn't packed enough water, and began to experience signs of dehydration. Summer weather is unpredictable, but everyone knows that staying hydrated while doing outdoor physical activities, like hiking, is crucial. It's so easy to end up dehydrated or overheated, even if you think you have things under control.

Thanks to park rangers and other first responders, the family was found quickly and was able to receive the medical care they needed before their situation worsened or they ended up dead.

The family was out for the day at a national park in Texas.

The family, which included two 23-year-old parents and one 3-month-old infant, went for a hike at the Guadalupe Mountains National Park in Culberson County in western Texas, mid-morning on August 20, according to a press release by the Texas Department of Public Safety.

The family found themselves stranded.

Around 3 p.m., the family had hiked 9 miles and found themselves without any water. Soon, they began to suffer the signs of dehydration and heat exhaustion due to the day's high temperatures. At approximately 4:15 p.m., Guadalupe Mountains National Park Rangers alerted DPS’ Aircraft Operations Division that the family was on the side of Guadalupe Peak, according to the press release.

The DPS moved quickly to rescue the family.

The DPS AOD sent out a Pilatus PC-12 airplane immediately to find the family from the air. They were able to find the family quickly, dispatching a helicopter to rescue them. A tactical flight officer was released from the helicopter to perform medical assessments on the family, and "determined a hoist rescue operation was the best course of action for their safety," per the press release.

In the end, the family was safe.

All three members of the family were hoisted into the helicopter and flown down the mountain to receive further care from the medical teams who were waiting for them.

The DPS released footage of the rescue, including pictures of the family, whose identities have not been revealed.