Hiker trapped by storm-swollen creek rescued from campground near Big Sur

A hiker was rescued near Big Sur on Monday after rising creek waters from the storm stranded them near a popular campground.

According to a Facebook post by CHP’s Coastal Division Air Operations, the agency’s H-70 helicopter responded to a stranded hiker near the Arroyo Seco trail in Monterey County at 10:36 a.m.

In the “rapidly deteriorating weather,” the helicopter arrived to the scene at 11:07 a.m. and located the hiker, who lost their escape route after hiking and camping overnight with proper gear, according to the post.

Due to overnight storms, the Santa Lucia Creek rose rapidly in water levels, and quickly became impassable, the post said.

The hiker was stranded on the opposite side of the creek, and was unable to return to the Arroyo Seco campground after camping there overnight and monitoring water levels.

The H-70 helicopter’s flight officer and paramedic made contact with the hiker and escorted them back to the helicopter after locating an off-site landing area nearby.

“This rescue serves as an important reminder,” the post said. “Do not underestimate winter storms or flash flood warnings. Water levels in creeks and rivers can rise dramatically in a matter of hours, even for well-prepared hikers.”