- Grand County experienced 20 search and rescue missions in Oct. 2025.
- The Sheriff's Office reported diverse emergencies including dirt bikers and base jumpers.
- Officials advise visitors to plan and have emergency contacts for safety.
SALT LAKE CITY — Grand County in southern Utah is known for its stunning red rock landscapes and outdoor adventures like base jumping, hiking, climbing and mountain biking. But in October, those attractions led to an unprecedented number of emergencies.
The Grand County Sheriff's Office reported 20 search and rescue missions in October alone, making it the busiest month of 2025.
"This is a pretty high number for a month. We usually don't see this many," said Sgt. Bradley Hines, with the Grand County Sheriff's Office. "It's a pretty wide mix. It goes from dirt bikers, to ATVs, base jumpers, mountain bikers (and) lost parties. A little bit of everything."
One operation even involved a swift water rescue when two people became trapped in a truck as floodwaters rose.
The rescue operations haven't stopped as the month drew to a close. Already, in the first three days of November, the team has responded to three major rescues, including one that took more than seven hours to reach a stranded base jumper in a remote location.
Officials said cooler weather draws more visitors seeking adventure, which often leads to accidents.
Hines advised anyone planning a trip to Grand County to follow three key safety steps:
- Have a plan
- Have an emergency contact
- Have a way to call for help
Rescuers said they expect another busy season ahead, but they remain committed to saving lives.
