Friday, 3 July 2026, 12:31
A mother and daughter have been reported missing after failing to return from a hike on one of Southern California's most challenging trails. Krystal Meyers, 41, and her daughter Alexis Meyers Martinez, 21, were last seen Thursday morning on the Vivian Creek Trail in the San Gorgonio Wilderness, east of Los Angeles. Authorities have launched a desperate search and rescue operation, appealing to the public for any information.
According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department, the pair were last contacted around 11 a.m. at an elevation of approximately 10,300 feet, above the High Creek switchbacks. They were hiking the Vivian Creek Trail, which the U.S. Forest Service describes as both the shortest and steepest route to the summit of Mount San Gorgonio—the highest peak in Southern California at over 11,500 feet. The trail is notoriously rugged and recommended only for experienced mountaineers due to its demanding conditions.
Krystal Meyers is described as a white woman, 5 feet 7 inches tall, weighing about 150 pounds, with blonde hair and blue eyes. Alexis Meyers Martinez is described as a white woman, 6 feet tall, weighing roughly 120 pounds, with black hair. It remains unclear what gear, food, or water supplies they had with them, or whether they intended to summit the peak.
The San Gorgonio Wilderness is located in San Bernardino County, a region known for its rugged mountain terrain and popular hiking destinations. The Vivian Creek Trail is a well-known but hazardous route, often used by experienced hikers seeking a challenge. The area's remote wilderness and high elevation can pose significant risks, especially for those unprepared for sudden weather changes or difficult terrain. Local search and rescue teams are experienced in these conditions but face a race against time as temperatures fluctuate.
Authorities urge anyone with information about the missing hikers to contact Deputy Jones at the Yucaipa Police Station at (909) 918-2305. Anonymous tips can be submitted to the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or online at wetip.com. The San Gorgonio Search and Rescue Team is coordinating efforts, and public assistance is crucial in locating the pair.
The disappearance of Krystal Meyers and Alexis Meyers Martinez highlights the dangers of hiking challenging trails without proper preparation. As search efforts continue, the community is urged to stay vigilant and report any sightings. This incident serves as a reminder for all hikers to carry adequate supplies, inform others of their plans, and respect trail difficulty ratings.
