Stranded hikers in the Gorge prompt officials to issue reminders on wilderness safety

PORTLAND, ORE. (KATU) — The Columbia River Gorge might seem like a playground, but the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office is urging people to not let their guard down.

“Something people need to remember is that the gorge is not a park, and it is a wilderness. If you are just looking to go for a walk somewhere, probably a city or county park, that's a more appropriate place,” said Brian Gerkman, head search-and-rescue coordinator.

Over the weekend, two women went for a hike and found themselves stranded. The pair spent hours stranded on a cliff near Multnomah Falls Saturday night.

They first called for help around 5:45 p.m., but officials say their phone died shortly after.

Gresham police helped Multnomah County use drones to search for the hikers.

The drone must come back to base often to get new batteries. When this happens, search and rescue lose sight of people if people move in that time frame. They say it’s hard to find them again.

A drone spotted the hikers over the weekend around 9:30 p.m. Saturday.

Rescuers say the next step was to make a plan to get them back on the trail, but rough terrain and darkness made it difficult.

Plus, officials say the hikers moved from their location.

Gerkman says hikers need to know to stay put when they call for rescue assistance.

He says very often “we get 911 calls while people have 5% left on their battery. We then are trying to locate them with data on that phone. Other times they don't have ability to call for help at all.”

KATU asked what happens if your phone dies while hiking and you need to be rescued.

Gerkman explained they will rely on family to call and say their loved ones didn't come home. After that, they will get a plan in place and know the starting point.

Officials said it is important to let others know where you are going and to pack more than you need and always be prepared to spend the night in the wilderness.