Malibu SAR rescues stranded hiker

By The Malibu Times · Sat Jul 18 2026

Members of the Malibu Search and Rescue (SAR) Team successfully rescued a stranded hiker last Sunday night after an initial search operation in Topanga Canyon quickly escalated into a technical cliff rescue.

The evening began with Malibu SAR responding to reports of two missing hikers in the Topanga Creek area. While rescuers were en route, dispatchers received a second emergency call reporting a vehicle that had gone over the side near Stunt Road and Mulholland Highway.

As resources responded to both incidents, firefighters were able to quickly reach the occupant of the vehicle, allowing Malibu SAR personnel to continue toward the hiker search.

The first Malibu SAR members arrived alongside Lost Hills Sheriff's Station deputies and made contact with one of the missing hikers, who had managed to climb out of the canyon and reach Topanga Canyon Boulevard on his own. However, his hiking partner remained stranded below after becoming trapped on a steep cliff face and was unable to climb to safety.

Following an initial assessment of the situation, rescuers determined the incident required a technical cliff rescue. Additional fire department resources were requested while Malibu SAR personnel began preparing specialized rescue equipment.

Two Malibu SAR operators carefully descended the steep terrain to reach the stranded hiker. After securing her in a rescue harness, the team used the Malibu SAR rescue truck's winch system to safely raise her back to the top of the cliff.

Once safely on stable ground, the hiker was evaluated by paramedics. Fortunately, she did not require transportation and was released at the scene.

The successful rescue highlights the specialized capabilities of the volunteer Malibu Search and Rescue Team, which works alongside the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department and local fire agencies to respond to emergencies throughout the Santa Monica Mountains. Their members are trained in wilderness search operations, technical rope rescue, and emergency medical care, often responding to incidents in some of the region's most rugged and difficult-to-access terrain.

Authorities remind hikers to plan ahead, remain on established trails whenever possible, carry adequate water and navigation tools, and avoid attempting to climb steep or unstable terrain. Anyone hiking in remote areas should also let someone know their planned route and expected return time before heading out.