Hiker set out to climb the tallest mountain in California — then vanished, rescuers say

Helena Wegner
·3 min read
4

UPDATE: Missing hiker died in fall on Mt. Whitney trail in California

A hiker has been missing for days after setting out to hike the tallest mountain in California, rescuers said.

Now, authorities are searching for clues about his whereabouts.

On Oct. 17, Tom Gerbier planned a day-trip trek up Mount Whitney, the Inyo County Search and Rescue team said in a Facebook post.

But Gerbier hasn’t been seen since, rescuers said.

He is described as French-speaking with blonde hair and blue eyes. He is 6 feet, 2 inches tall and weighs about 180 pounds. Rescuers did not include his age.

Rescuers are asking anyone who reached the summit of Mount Whitney to take a photo of the register and see if Gerbier wrote his name.

“If you hiked any trail/route on Mt. Whitney on Tuesday, please go through your photos and see if you can spot Tom somewhere in the background,” rescuers said.

Anyone with information about Gerbier can contact the Inyo County Sheriff’s Department at 760-878-0383.

Inyo County Search and Rescue did not release any further information to McClatchy News on Oct. 19 about the missing hiker.

Mount Whitney is the tallest mountain in the lower 48 states with an elevation of 14,494 feet, according to the National Park Service.

It’s part of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, which spans 430 miles across eastern California, the United States Geological Survey said.

Climbers can take a 10.7-mile route up Mount Whitney. This trek is the shortest and most popular hike to the summit, park officials said.

Park officials advise climbers to use ice axes and crampons in the spring and early summer, but not in early October.

How to be prepared while hiking

If you’re planning to hike, the National Park Service says there are 10 essentials you should take:

  • Navigation: Pack a map, compass and a GPS system. Make sure you study your route beforehand and understand how to use the tools.

  • Sun protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat can help protect your skin and eyes from UV rays.

  • Insulation: A jacket, hat, gloves, raincoat and thermal underwear can help you be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.

  • Illumination: A flashlight, lantern and headlamp can create light if you get stuck in the dark — and don’t forget to pack extra batteries.

  • First-aid supplies: It’s a good idea to have a first-aid kit on hand while hiking. Check the expiration date on items before you pack them.

  • Fire: Matches and a lighter can help start fire to act as an emergency signal in times of need.

  • Repair kit and tools: Duct tape, a knife, screwdriver and scissors can be helpful if items break during your hike or you need assistance.

  • Nutrition: You should pack an extra day’s worth of food in case something goes wrong. Park officials recommend having “salty and easy to digest snacks.”

  • Hydration: You should drink water often and before you feel thirsty if you’re hiking in hot weather. Keeping your body hydrated is “of utmost importance,” park officials said.

  • Emergency shelter: Packing a tent, space blanket, tarp and bivy can help you be prepared if severe weather breaks out or your plan takes a turn.

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