Huntington Experts See Rise in Hiking Injuries, Urge Safety This Summer

Falls, Heat, Wildlife Encounters Remain Leading Causes of Serious Hiking Injuries

As Southern California enters peak hiking season, experts at Huntington Health, an affiliate of Cedars-Sinai, are advising that preparation and awareness can save lives on local mountain trails.

Less than a month since the season began in late-March, Huntington Hospital's emergency department is already seeing an uptick in hiking-related injuries ranging from snake bites and broken bones to heat illness and cardiac emergencies.

Huntington News interviewed Amal Obaid-Schmid, MD, Huntington's medical director of trauma services, and Janet Henderson, RN, clinical director of Huntington's emergency department and a member of the Montrose Search and Rescue Team, about the most common hiking injuries they treat and how hikers can stay safe when they hit the trails.

Huntington News: What types of hiking injuries do you see most frequently in the Emergency Department?

Henderson:
The most common injuries we see from hiking are falls - people slipping, losing their footing, or falling down a slope. These can lead to fractures, lacerations, and sometimes head or spinal injuries. We also see injuries from falling rocks or boulders, especially after heavy rain or wildfire damage has weakened trails.

Obaid-Schmid:
Yes, the severity can range widely. Some hikers come in with sprains or simple cuts, while others have internal bleeding or organ injuries, such as a ruptured spleen. The mechanism of injury, how someone falls or what strikes them, matters a great deal.

There have been several reports of falling rocks and boulders in our local mountains. What makes these injuries challenging?

Obaid-Schmid:
We've treated hikers with multiple fractures, head injuries, and internal bleeding after being struck by falling boulders. In one recent incident, two large boulders broke loose on the same day and injured two hikers at the same time. Both required emergency transport.

Henderson:
Many of these rescues require helicopters because ambulances can't access the terrain. When helicopters can't fly due to weather or low visibility, it can take hours to get someone out, which delays lifesaving care.

If someone is injured, should they try to keep hiking to get help?

Obaid-Schmid:
No. Trying to "walk it off" is one of the biggest mistakes we see. If there's any chance you've fractured a bone, continuing to bear weight can significantly worsen the injury and complicate recovery. The safest option is to stop, stay put and call for help.

Henderson:
It's important to make yourself visible and, if possible, have someone go for help. Staying still often prevents a bad situation from becoming catastrophic.

How big of a concern are heat-related illnesses?

Obaid-Schmid:
Heat illness is one of the most common hiking-related medical issues we treat, especially as temperatures rise. Dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heatstroke can all become life-threatening if people ignore early symptoms.

Henderson:
People should hike early in the morning, bring more water than they think they'll need, and know when to turn around. Finding shade, using sun-protective clothing, and pacing yourself go a long way.

Huntington News: What about wildlife dangers on local trails?

Henderson:
Rattlesnake bites are a real concern in warmer months, especially since trails can be overgrown and snakes are easy to miss.

Obaid-Schmid:
If someone is bitten, they should seek medical care immediately. Do not cut the wound, suck out venom, burn the skin, or use a tourniquet. Those myths cause more harm than good. Hospitals carry antivenom, which is very effective when given quickly.

Mountain lions pose the most serious wildlife risk, though encounters are rare. Coyotes may also approach humans, particularly if food is present. Hikers are advised to stay alert and avoid wearing headphones that limit awareness.

What first-aid skills make the biggest difference before rescue arrives?

Henderson:
Basic splinting for suspected fractures and knowing how to recognize allergic reactions are also important. Hikers with conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, or severe allergies should always carry their medications on longer hikes, including EpiPens.

Obaid-Schmid:
Every hiker should know how to stop bleeding. Applying direct pressure, packing a wound, or using a tourniquet can be lifesaving while waiting for help. Huntington and Cedars-Sinai offer a Stop the Bleed program that provides this important instruction to the community.

Other than hiking injuries, what types of other serious medical emergencies can happen on the trail?

Obaid-Schmid:
While rare, we've treated cardiac arrests that occurred during hikes, particularly in people with known heart conditions. Knowing your limits and choosing hikes appropriate for your health is essential.

Henderson:
Shorter, less strenuous hikes done more frequently can still provide the benefits of being outdoors without putting someone at unnecessary risk.

Huntington News: Is it safe to rely on a cell phone for emergencies?

Henderson:
Cell service is unreliable in many hiking areas. One of the simplest safety steps is telling someone where you're going and when you expect to return. That information often triggers rescue efforts.

Obaid-Schmid:
GPS trackers or emergency beacon devices can also add an extra layer of safety, especially on remote trails.

Hiking should be enjoyable, not dangerous. With a little planning and common sense, people can dramatically reduce their risk and safely enjoy the outdoors this summer.

Huntington Hospital is the only Level II trauma center and the largest emergency room in the San Gabriel Valley. To learn more about Huntington Hospital's emergency and trauma services, visit: https://www.huntingtonhealth.org/our-services/emergency-trauma/