7 hikers rescued in triple-digit heat near Sedona’s iconic natural landmark
Seven people needed rescuing in triple-digit heat near a popular natural landmark in Sedona, deputies in Arizona said.
Search and rescue teams responded to a call the afternoon of July 10 for two lost hikers near Devil’s Bridge Trail, the Yavapai County Sheriff’s Office said in a July 11 news release.
The hikers took a wrong turn and couldn’t find their way back to the trailhead, deputies said. They also had run out of water.
Rescue teams found the two hikers and led them back to the trailhead.
Then reports came in of hikers needing help closer to Devil’s Bridge, deputies said.
“The teams hiked up, aided, and rescued five hikers in different groups along the way,” authorities said.
These hikers, who suffered from heat-related issues, were driven back to the trailhead, deputies said.
There was a high of 102 in Sedona July 10, according to AccuWeather.
“On the exposed trail with little shade and the sun reflecting off the rocks, the temperatures can soar much higher,” deputies said.
Devil’s Bridge Trail leads to the largest sandstone formation in Sedona and is a “photographer’s paradise,” according to Sedona.net.
Hikers can walk across the red rock arch.
How to be prepared while hiking
If you’re planning to hike, the National Park Service says there are 10 essentials you should take:
Navigation: Pack a map, compass and a GPS system. Make sure you study your route beforehand and understand how to use the tools.
Sun protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat can help protect your skin and eyes from UV rays.
Insulation: A jacket, hat, gloves, raincoat and thermal underwear can help you be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.
Illumination: A flashlight, lantern and headlamp can create light if you get stuck in the dark — and don’t forget to pack extra batteries.
First-aid supplies: It’s a good idea to have a first-aid kit on hand while hiking. Check the expiration date on items before you pack them.
Fire: Matches and a lighter can help start fire to act as an emergency signal in times of need.
Repair kit and tools: Duct tape, a knife, screwdriver and scissors can be helpful if items break during your hike or you need assistance.
Nutrition: You should pack an extra day’s worth of food in case something goes wrong. Park officials recommend having “salty and easy to digest snacks.”
Hydration: You should drink water often and before you feel thirsty if you’re hiking in hot weather. Keeping your body hydrated is “of utmost importance,” park officials said.
Emergency shelter: Packing a tent, space blanket, tarp and bivy can help you be prepared if severe weather breaks out or your plan takes a turn.
This story was originally published July 14, 2025 at 12:49 PM with the headline "7 hikers rescued in triple-digit heat near Sedona’s iconic natural landmark."
