A hiker who got lost in Joshua Tree National Park Thursday afternoon has been found alive and well. The hiker, who was not identified, was hiking in a group along the 49 Palms Oasis trail on Thursday when they became separated from the group and went off trail. At around 5 p.m., the group reported the hiker missing. Park staff and members of Joshua Tree Search and Rescue mobilized and began a search for the missing hiker. The hiker was located by responders at around 7:30 p.m. and was hiked out without injuries. With temperatures rising well above 100°F at this time of the year, Joshua Tree National Park is urging visitors to take precautions before hiking. Avoid activity during the hot daytime hours, protect yourself from the sun, bring at least two gallons of water per person, and pay close attention to local weather reports for updates on storm and flash flood warnings.
