Overview

• Two tourists from Seattle climbed down a steep section of the Lands End Trail between Mile Rock Beach and Deadman’s Point to retrieve a dropped phone and became stuck
• San Francisco Fire Department’s cliff rescue and heavy rescue units rigged ropes, harnesses and helmets to haul the pair to safety in an operation lasting over one hour
• Both visitors emerged unhurt and were led back to the main trail following the rescue
• U.S. Park Police issued tickets to each tourist for leaving designated paths on national park land, with potential fines up to $300 per person
• Officials say the incident highlights the risks of off-trail activity in the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and reinforces park safety rules