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Helicopter rescues lost mountain biker in Sierra backcountry of Northern CA

Emergency personnel rescued a mountain biker who was stranded in Sierra County on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026.
Emergency personnel rescued a mountain biker who was stranded in Sierra County on Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026. Nevada County Consolidated Fire District

A stranded mountain biker was rescued Saturday by helicopter after encountering snowy conditions on a backcountry trail, the Sierra County Sheriff’s Office said in a social media post.

The biker was attempting to ride Butcher Ranch Trail but went off course due to the snow. They were “unable to self rescue” and called for help with satellite communication, the Sheriff’s Office said.

A California Highway Patrol helicopter based in Auburn and a helicopter rescue technician responded and located the biker.

“The subject was safely secured, loaded onto the aircraft, and transported to the town of Downieville,” the Nevada County Consolidated Fire District said in a social media post.

The Sheriff’s Office reminded people to take caution when on the trails during the winter.

“Anyone recreating in remote areas during winter months should be properly prepared, including appropriate clothing, emergency supplies, and reliable communication equipment,” the Sheriff’s Office said in the post.

Camryn Dadey
The Sacramento Bee
Camryn Dadey is The Sacramento Bee’s Elk Grove and Rancho Cordova watchdog reporter. She is a 2022 graduate of Sacramento State.
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