Five-day hunt for missing hiker in Southern Californian mountains

ngeles National Forest
A hiker was lost for five days in Angeles National Forest, Southern California (Image credit: Getty Images)

A  missing hiker was reported to be delirious and tired after spending five days lost in Southern Californian mountains.

George Null was eventually found deep in Bear Canyon in the Mount Waterman area of Angeles National Forest.

When he was spotted, the 58-year-old hiker was at a height of around 2500ft, having descended from the mountain summit of more than 8000ft.

The Angeles National Forest is located within one of the driest, most fire-prone areas in America.  Last year, so-called "Bobcat Fire" raged in the area and many trail markers were burned. 

It's reported that Null became disoriented during his hike because of the missing signposts. 

Null’s sister, who was delighted to hear her brother had been found safe and well, said he is an experienced hiker and Eagle Scout.

Null was airlifted after a huge search and rescue effort. Despite some scratches and blisters, the hiker was said to be in good health.

His sister told CBS LA: "He doesn't have a lot of words right now and he's a little bit delirious after five days of wandering around in the forest."

Fiona Russell
Outdoor writer

Fiona Russell is a widely published adventure journalist and blogger, better known as Fiona Outdoors. She is based in Scotland and is an all-round outdoors enthusiast with favorite activities including trail running, mountain walking, mountain biking, road cycling, triathlon and skiing (both downhill and backcountry). Aside from her own adventures, Fiona's biggest aim is to inspire others to enjoy getting outside and exploring, especially through her writing. She is also rarely seen without a running skort! Find out more at Fiona Outdoors.