72-Year-Old Hiker Rescued After Days Lost in Shasta County

Mary Beth Granbery, 72, is recovering after being found alive Sunday in a northern California forest. She had been missing for several days following a fall and exposure.

Granbery's family reported her missing Friday, Oct. 2, after she failed to return from a multi-day camping trip. She began her trip Sept. 28 at the Cabin Creek Trailhead in Shasta County, California. The Siskiyou County Sheriff's Office noted her absence when she did not return to work.

Search and rescue teams from the Siskiyou and Shasta County Sheriff's offices, aided by volunteers and the California Highway Patrol Air Operations, launched a joint effort Saturday. Searchers located Granbery's camper van at a nearby trailhead, providing a key starting point for the ground search.

Crews discovered Granbery at the bottom of a steep embankment Sunday. Rescuers airlifted her to a medical center for treatment. Her family, who provided critical information to assist the search, has since reunited with her. The search area presented significant challenges, including steep terrain, creeks and downed trees, according to the Shasta County Search and Rescue Jeep Patrol.

Officials advise those venturing outdoors to always inform someone of their departure and expected return times. They also recommend staying in place if lost to avoid expanding the search area.