Injured person rescued from popular Santa Cruz Mountains swimming hole

Lifeguards rescued an injured person from the water at the Garden of Eden swimming hole near Felton, authorities said Friday.

Emergency crews responded to a medical emergency at the swimming spot in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park in the Santa Cruz Mountains, according to Cal Fire.

When crews arrived, they found a person with a moderate injury in the water, authorities said. Emergency crews requested a medical helicopter and water rescue teams, but canceled after California State Parks lifeguards safely reached the patient.

The person, who was not identified, was transported to a nearby trauma center by ambulance, authorities said.

The swimming hole on the San Lorenzo River has surged in popularity in recent years. Other injuries have occurred there, including two visitors who had to be airlifted out after falling onto the rocks in separate incidents in 2016.

Cal Fire urged people to stay out of the water and warned of potential dangers.

"While the water at the Garden of Eden may look deep enough to jump into, it can be extremely dangerous," Cal Fire posted on Facebook. "Winter storms can move large rocks and logs into the swimming hole, creating hidden hazards beneath the surface. Never assume the water is safe for diving or jumping."

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This story was originally published July 11, 2026 at 7:21 PM.