Hiker, dogs lost in mountains just as another pair of hikers is found

An experienced hiker was communicating with search teams overnight after getting lost along with his dogs in the San Gabriel Mountains, authorities said.

The 32-year-old hiker had been hiking near Islip Saddle, which is just west of Mt. Islip, when he became lost, said Lt. Andy Berg of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. The hiker called authorities about 10:30 p.m. Monday for help, he said.

At least five search-and-rescue deputies began hiking the steep trail toward the lost hiker early Tuesday, Berg said. It is unclear when they will find the hiker and his dogs.

The hiker and his pets are uninjured, and he has been talking with search teams to help them determine his whereabouts. Cellphone reception has been intermittent, but crews were able to obtain GPS coordinates near his location.

Hours earlier, two other hikers missing overnight were found on Mt. Wilson.

Members of Montrose Search and Rescue worked throughout the night, finally locating the men, ages 62 and 75, about 2 a.m. They drove the men out to safety in the Valley Forge area, sheriff’s Sgt. Burton Brink said.

The pair apparently had used a campfire to stay warm.

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