Solo Camper Rescued After 24 Days in California’s Sierra Wilderness
What began as a solo camping trip turned into a miraculous survival story for 27-year-old Tiffany Slaton, who was rescued after spending 24 days lost in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains.
Slaton set out on April 20 near Shaver and Huntington lakes in Fresno County, expecting to camp for just three days. But after falling off a cliff and being cut off by an avalanche, she was forced to navigate alone through snow-covered wilderness — without a tent or sleeping bag — relying on wild leeks, pine needle tea, and melted snow for survival.
Her phone couldn’t connect to 911, and navigation failed. At one point, she even asked her phone for the nearest Starbucks — it was 18 miles away. Slaton pushed on, enduring 13 snowstorms and reaching altitudes of 11,000 feet.
She was finally found on May 15 — the day before her 28th birthday — by the owner of Vermilion Valley Resort, over 40 miles from where she started. Slaton had taken shelter in an unlocked cabin the resort owner had left open for stranded hikers.
Authorities called it a “miracle,” praising Slaton’s survival skills and determination. “All she wanted was a hug,” said resort owner Christopher Gutierrez.
