Forest Falls, CA – On August 3, 2025, at approximately 3:45 p.m., San Bernardino County Fire responded to a reported hiker screaming for help midway up Big Falls. The reporting party couldn’t see the hiker but could hear the cries for help. The hiker had lost his footing trying to cross a wet, slippery portion of the falls and fell to a rocky pool area below.
The first-arriving company hiked in and located a seriously injured hiker and performed a medical assessment. A rescue helicopter was immediately ordered. This hoist-capable helicopter would be the fastest, safest, and most efficient way to extract the patient.
The helicopter lowered a paramedic, and together with ground forces, packaged the patient in a stokes basket. The patient was quickly removed from the scene and immediately flown to a local trauma center.
Responding units included, one rescue unit, one fire engine, one battalion chief, one rescue helicopter, and one public information officer.
There were no injuries reported to any other civilians, firefighters, or air crew personnel.
San Bernardino County Fire urges visitors to stay on marked trails, avoid climbing on or around waterfalls, and keep a safe distance from slippery or steep areas. We respond to incidents at this popular location often, where people are seriously injured, so please make smart choices and stay safe.
We would like to thank @sbcsdaviation for their assistance.
Date/Time: August 3, 2025, at 3:45 p.m.
Location: Big Falls, Forest Falls
Incident Number: 25-187341
Contact: Shawn Millerick, Public Information Officer
smillerick@sbcfire.org