CHALLIS, ID – On March 21, 2026, Custer County Dispatch received a Garmin SOS notification at 4:33 p.m. reporting an injured 27-year-old male on McGowan Peak in the Pahsimeroi section of the Lost River Range, south of Challis.
Challis Search and Rescue was notified at 4:42 p.m. and quickly responded to the location. With assistance from the Idaho National Guard, a hoist operation was conducted using a Blackhawk helicopter at an elevation of 9,400 feet.
The injured hiker was successfully brought down to a waiting medical helicopter shortly before 10 p.m.
Officials expressed appreciation to the crews of Talon 70 and Air 4, noting that the operation marks the beginning of another season of cooperation in the region.
