Overview
- A group of nine college‑age hikers became disoriented while ascending the unofficial Indian Staircase and called 911 around 9:30 p.m. Saturday before being escorted off the route around 2 a.m. Sunday.
- Wolfe County Search and Rescue, an all‑volunteer team, located the hikers from coordinates they texted and used a hand line including a 30‑foot rope to lower everyone safely on the steep terrain.
- The hikers had little water or survival gear, debated whether to move, and rescuers said their decision to stay put and call for help likely prevented a worse outcome.
- Rescuers and sources note that the Indian Staircase is not a maintained U.S. Forest Service trail, AllTrails labels the approach difficult, and the area has steep cliffs that become especially hazardous after dark.
- Officials urged hikers to carry maps and headlamps, download routes offline, pack food and water, and use phone GPS or call 911 if lost, highlighting how volunteer teams rely on coordinates and rope skills for technical rescues.