July 22, 2026 – San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office officials report that on July 17, 2026, the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue (SAR) Team successfully located a lost hiker after a coordinated search in the Valencia Peak area of Montaña de Oro State Park.

On the evening of July 17, 2026, the Sheriff's Office Search and Rescue Team responded to a request from California State Parks to assist in locating a hiker who had become lost while hiking alone. The hiker, who was visiting family from outside the United States, had gone on a solo hike earlier that afternoon. He later contacted a family member to report that he was lost and that his cell phone battery was nearly depleted.

SAR volunteers, Sheriff's Deputies, and the Sheriff's Office Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Team quickly launched a coordinated air and ground search of the area's trail system. Approximately one hour after search operations began, the hiker was located.

The hiker was cold and disoriented but otherwise uninjured. He was safely escorted back to the trailhead, where he was reunited with his family. He declined medical attention.

The Sheriff's Office reminds anyone planning to hike to take a few simple precautions before heading out on the trail:

Always let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.

Carry a fully charged cell phone along with a portable battery pack.

Bring plenty of water and appropriate clothing.

Avoid hiking alone whenever possible.

Source & photos: San Luis Obispo County Sheriff's Office