Bicyclist Injured in Steep Laguna Terrain Rescued

More than two dozen rescuers were needed Sunday to save a biker who fell on a steep trail in Laguna Canyon.

The 38-year-old Aliso Viejo man, whose name was not released, was heading down a steep rock face above Laguna Canyon Road near the dog park when he was thrown off his bike. He severely cut his lower left leg, Laguna Beach fire officials said.

Because of the steep and rugged terrain and his injury, the man was unable to walk out. A joint rescue team from the Laguna Beach Police and Fire departments, Laguna Beach Marine Safety and Orange County Fire Authority worked three hours to rescue the biker.

Officials said access to the biker was difficult because of the terrain. The Orange County Fire Authority’s Urban Search and Rescue Team used a rope to cross the slopes, and the Fire Authority helicopter team used a short-haul sling and basket to lift him out.

The biker was taken to Saddleback Memorial Medical Center in Laguna Hills for treatment, officials said.