03/16/2026
12 Hour Overnight Rescue on Mount Baldy
What started as a routine welfare check Friday night turned into a 12-hour mountain rescue above 11,000 feet on the slopes of Mount Baldy.
At approximately 7:30 PM on March 13, Greer Fire District "A Shift" was dispatched to the Gabaldon Campground / East Baldy Trailhead area for two hikers who had been on the trail since 9:00 AM. After dark set in, the hikers became cold and concerned they may be developing frostbite.
When crews arrived, they received a GPS location from the subjects and quickly realized the hikers were farther up the mountain than expected — approximately 5.7 miles (corrected) up the East Baldy Trail on the side of Mount Thomas, well above the snow line.
Greer Fire and White Mountain Ambulance crews began navigating up the trail through deep snow and rugged terrain. Arizona DPS Ranger 3 was dispatched and assisted by guiding rescuers to the hikers’ location.
Due to heavy timber and deep snow, the helicopter was unable to land near the subjects. Once firefighters reached them, crews began the long trek down the mountain together, working through deep snow, downed timber, and darkness until reaching Purcell Cienega, where Ranger 3 was able to land.
The hikers were flown to the trailhead, and Ranger 3 returned to retrieve rescuers.
Twelve hours after the call began, Greer Fire crews watched the sunrise from the helicopter on the flight out.
We appreciate the teamwork between Greer Fire District, White Mountain Ambulance, Arizona DPS Ranger, and the Apache County Sheriff's Office that helped bring this rescue to a safe conclusion.
🚨 Backcountry Safety Reminder 🚨
Conditions in the White Mountains can change quickly, especially this time of year.
If you plan to hike in the backcountry:
• Check that roads and trails are open. Baldy and Big Lake access roads remain closed until April 15.
• Carry at least 2 quarts of water per person.
• Bring extra food (24 hours worth).
• Pack a headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries.
• Carry fire-starting supplies.
• Dress in layers — avoid cotton.
• Set a turnaround time and always plan to be back before dark.
If conditions worsen, snow deepens, or you are not properly equipped, turn around early.