LAist relies on reader support, not paywalls.
Freely accessible local news is vital. Please power our reporters and help keep us independent with a donation today.
Backpackers Saved From Creek Fire By Dramatic Helicopter Rescue
Flames incinerate a forest as the Creek Fire rapidly expands (David McNew/Getty Images)
When backpackers Adrienne Chenette and a friend, Kathryn Palmer, set off from Tuolumne Meadows they had plans to summit Mt. Whitney.
On day seven of their trip, when they noticed smoke rising high above the mountains, they knew they had to evacuate.
Nine miles later, with eyes burning and lungs inundated with falling ash, they arrived at their emergency exit.
But soon they found out they, and 50 other backpackers, locals, and law enforcement were trapped. The fire had encircled them. And the only way they could be saved was by helicopter.
The problem? The smoke was too thick and the weather too erratic for the pilots to land.
READ MORE ABOUT THEIR TRAUMATIC EXPERIENCE:
Our news is free on LAist. To make sure you get our coverage: Sign up for our daily newsletters. To support our non-profit public service journalism: Donate Now.