The following story, submitted by the subject of a search and rescue effort, illustrates the need to be aware of hazards in the outdoors. His actions not only endangered himself but also those who responded to his aid.
What began as an innocent day hike to view one of Yosemite's natural wonders ended in a traumatic experience at the edge of a waterfall. Here is his story:
A bead of sweat rolls off the edge of my nose as I sit and rest, listening to the sounds of the most magnificent forms of Mother Nature I have ever seen. With great anticipation, I arrive and continue my climb trying to imagine what beauty lies ahead. With each step, my excitement excels. I am determined to reach the top.
My strides stretch as I envision a most spectacular view at Upper Yosemite Falls, my temporary destination. I decide to take another short rest. I sit under a tree, enjoying its shade, and my attention becomes drawn to a powerful hum. A brightened smile appears when I realize that I am close to reaching the top. I shake off my backpack and pull out a water bottle to quench my thirst. I sip the mountain water and simultaneously my pores open, allowing the water to exit my body.
As I feel my body cool down, I watch a group of Fresno teenagers make way from the trees returning to the main trail. The leader and I exchange smiles. He asks me how would a cool misty spray feel right about now. I answer with a slight nod of the head. He explains that he is a regular traveler in this park and behind that tree is a narrow path that leads to the base of the upper falls.
He goes on to say that it is a great place to cool off. With a strong wind creating a cool, misty atmosphere, it seems like an innocent plan. I think to myself, "I have been hiking for a few hours and it's almost noon. Why not take a break?" I gather my things and head down the narrow path.
A thunderous roar deafens my ears as I approach the sight of the waterfall. Standing next to a boulder, I set my bag down and let the cool mist saturate my skin. I couldn't believe my eyes. I felt so small standing in the presence of Yosemite Falls. I almost felt as if I were trespassing by invading Mother Nature's territory. Suddenly I felt very cold. I knew it was time to get on my way, but I thought a picture would capture this moment. The camera snaps, and I walk back to my bag.
My first step proves the path was prone for disaster. My foot lost its traction on the wet, slimy rock as I fall on all fours. On my hands and knees I slowly slide down a long stretch of wet, algae-covered rock. My mind cannot even respond. My speed quickly increases. My body is sliding out of control towards the base of the upper falls. Before I even let out a scream, I plunge into the roaring rapids that are heading for the lower falls of Yosemite's main attraction.
My body now is part of the water, and I honestly couldn't tell you how I was feeling. I was basically waiting for the unexpected. Submerged in the water for no longer than a few seconds, I am tossed onto a rock that was right in the middle of the waterfall. I stood praying for a rescue and thanking the Almighty that I was given a chance. For several hours in hypothermic conditions, I waited.
My positive and optimistic feelings started to drift away until the rescue crew appeared.
I felt somewhat relieved. Their energy awakened me and gave me anew sense of hope.
Although I felt relief, I wondered what they could do in these conditions. I thought
the rescue would require a miracle. I tried to keep my eyes open watching them prepare to
set up equipment. I regretted not staying on the main trail as I tearfully watched these
people risk their most precious gift for me. Their courageous efforts are the reasons why
I am here right now.
I cannot express enough of my heartfelt appreciation. Man has destroyed much of Mother Nature and has polluted Her sacred land. I feel that by going off the main trail, I too had invaded Mother Nature's space. Maybe my accident was Her way of telling me to back off and respect Her territory. By staying on the main trail, we all can respect Her beauty and majesty without endangering our most precious gift - life.
Anonymous SAR subject, 1996
This man was cited into court for creating a hazardous condition. He was found guilty by a U.S. Magistrate. His sentence was to pay restitution and submit an article to the National Park Service summarizing his experience so that others might learn.