LOCAL

14-hour rescue ends with safe recovery of four hikers from Organ Mountains

Justin Garcia
Las Cruces Sun-News
A photo of the drone footage that proved critical in locating the hikers and assisting the rescuers on June 12, 2023.

LAS CRUCES – The rescue of four hikers from the Organ Mountains by rescue teams on Monday took 14 hours.

Vic Villalobos, a member of the Mesilla Valley Search and Rescue, said crews got a call around 11:45 a.m. that four people were stuck in the Organ Mountains near Needle Peak. Villalobos said crews arrived but had trouble getting to the hikers, all people in their 20s, because they were on a ledge near the Retaining Wall.

Villalobos said that crews relied on a drone, first to spot the hikers and then to guide responders to their location. Villalobos added that getting water to the hikers and responders was also challenging because of the rescue’s location.

Ultimately, however, all four hikers were rescued without injury. None of the responders suffered any injuries either, Villalobos said.

In all, Mesilla Valley Search and Rescue responded to the call, as did Organ Mountain Technical Rescue, the Las Cruces Fire Department Technical Rescue and the New Mexico State Police.

Responders below the Organ Mountains on June 12, 2023.

Tips to keep safe during Organ Mountain adventures

Las Cruces Fire Department has released updated tips and advice when hiking in the Las Cruces area. The updated guidance includes:

  • Know your capabilities and the terrain in which you will be in.
  • Plan your trek carefully and consider weather reports, the expected duration and other conditions you might face during your adventure.
  • Never hike, bike, backpack or adventure alone.
  • Keep groups together unless it is essential to separate for survival.
  • Follow all signage and refrain from straying from established trails.
  • Carry a fully charged cellular or satellite phone in case of an emergency. Avoid depleting a cell phone’s battery by overusing the camera function.
  • Pack a power bank and the proper cord to recharge a depleted cell phone battery.
  • Carry a flashlight and extra batteries even if your hike is during the daytime.
  • Avoid pushing daylight to take in a glorious sunset or full moon. Once the sun sets, following trails and finding your bearings on unknown terrain is difficult.
  • Take plenty of drinking water and food to sustain you during the trek. Remember, warm daytime temperatures and relatively high elevations expend energy quickly.
  • Wear or carry proper attire for the trek. It’s best to dress in layers that can be easily removed – or added – depending on conditions.
  • Wear a hat or proper head covering.
  • Wear boots or hiking shoes that are comfortable and suitable for the terrain to be covered.
  • Be aware of changing weather conditions and the potential for flash floods from rain upstream from your location.
  • Be extremely cautious of setting or using fire.
  • Beware of more active snakes during warmer weather and as daytime temperatures rise. Snakebite victims should seek help immediately.
  • Beware of wild animals that frequent the Organ Mountains and other nearby areas: bobcats, mountain lions, coyotes, foxes, deer, and African oryx. Never approach or attempt to handle a wild animal.
  • If hiking with a dog, consider its needs and safety requirements for the trek.
  • Refrain from allowing your dog to run off-leash as it might give chase to wild animals and could quickly become lost or injured.
  • Stay within the limitations of your vehicle (or your driving skills).
  • Ensure your vehicle, tires, and spare tire are in good condition for the terrain.
  • Monitor your fuel gauge to ensure you do not run out of gasoline.
  • Stay on developed roads or dedicated tracks.
  • Respect signage and avoid driving onto private properties or dedicated wilderness areas.
  • Do not attempt dangerous water crossings.
  • Properly wear seatbelts or harnesses at all times when the vehicle is in motion.
  • If stranded, it is recommended first to try calling for help. Abandoning a vehicle and walking for help could be more dangerous than staying put and waiting for help to arrive.
  • Tell a friend or relative where you are going and when you expect to return. If you have yet to return by the designated time, they should know to contact authorities.
  • Dispose of waste properly and use the “Pack it In – Pack it Out” motto to help keep wild areas pristine.

Justin Garcia covers public safety and local government in Las Cruces. He can be reached via email at JEGarcia@lcsun-news.com, via phone or text at 575-541-5449, or on Twitter @Just516Garc.