DOUGLAS COUNTY, Colo. (KDVR) — A UTV rider was rescued Monday morning after an overnight search in rugged terrain near Rainbow Falls, a popular recreation spot in Douglas County.
The rider was reported missing Sunday evening, prompting a coordinated search effort involving six Colorado agencies. Crews utilized drones, high-clearance trucks, and ATVs to comb the area, but initial efforts were hampered by darkness and difficult terrain.
“It’s a beautiful open riding area, but we get paged there quite often,” said Dave Arnett, field director for Douglas County Search and Rescue. “People go off trail or run into trouble on these challenging roads.”
Search teams worked past 2 a.m. Monday, returning at first light for a second sweep. It was during this effort that the rider was located and safely brought out of the area.
Officials say the situation underscores the dangers of riding during Colorado’s “mud season”—typically late April through May—when melting snow and saturated trails can cause unexpected hazards for off-road vehicles.
“This is a really challenging time of year,” said Arnett. “Mud picks up, snow hasn’t fully melted, and the trails become especially difficult.”
Search and rescue teams urge riders to stay on marked trails, avoid riding alone, and always check conditions before heading out. In an emergency, call 911 to ensure the proper resources are deployed.
The rider is expected to be OK.
