Mountain rescue teams in the Austrian Alps rescued a stranded group of 36 hikers, including infants in strollers and several children, after they lost their way on a descent from Sölden. According to local media reports, the international group departed from the Wildspitzbahn mountain station at approximately 2,650 meters before wandering onto dangerous terrain.
Helicopter Rescue Deployed After Hikers Lose Way Near Sölden
The group started their trek from the upper station of the Wildspitzbahn at roughly 2,650 meters altitude, intending to hike down to the valley more than 1,000 meters below, as reported by local media. The party consisted of 17 Belgians, 9 Britons, 7 Austrians, and 3 Americans. Police stated that the hikers chose the wrong route, bringing unsuitable equipment and strollers into the high-alpine environment. After wandering for hours, members of the group lost sight of each other, prompting two individuals to raise the alarm around 17:15.
Precarious Conditions on Steep Slopes
Rescuers faced severe challenges as darkness approached and hikers remained scattered across steep terrain. According to a statement given to the Kronen Zeitung by a rescue worker, “Various involved parties were located a mere half-meter from the abyss and could scarcely keep themselves upright.” Fourteen of the 36 hikers were hoisted out via helicopter, while rescue services guided the remaining individuals on foot. Authorities confirmed that everyone escaped uninjured, describing the outcome as a minor miracle.
Did you know? Jakob Fiegl, the head responsible for the rescue operation, noted that the hikers must pay for the rescue operation out of their own pockets, remarking that the incident could have ended much worse.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the hikers to get stranded in the Austrian Alps?
According to police statements cited in local media, the group chose the wrong hiking route while attempting a 1,000-meter descent from the Wildspitzbahn mountain station near Sölden with equipment and strollers unsuited for alpine terrain.
How many people were rescued from the mountain?
Rescue teams aided 36 people in total, including 17 Belgians, 9 Britons, 7 Austrians, and 3 Americans. Fourteen were evacuated by helicopter, and the rest were escorted down on foot.
Who pays for mountain rescues in Austria?
According to operation head Jakob Fiegl, the hikers involved in this incident must pay for the rescue operation out of their own pocket.
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