Lost for 3 weeks, woman found alive in California mountains in unbelievable rescue
After vanishing for weeks in the snow-covered California wilderness, 28-year-old Tiffany Slaton was miraculously found alive—her incredible survival story, fueled by wild leeks and grit, is capturing national attention and redefining what it means to endure.
After surviving almost 3-weeks alone in the Sierra Nevada mountains in California, 28-year-old Tiffany Slaton from Jeffersonville, Georgia was found alive. She went camping alone and was last seen on April 24, near Shaver Lake. When her family could not get in touch with her for more than a week, they reported her missing on April 29. Despite multiple search efforts covering over 600 square miles, inclement winter conditions slowed their search efforts.
Eventually Tiffany was found by Christopher Gutierrez, the owner of the Vermilion Valley Resort, who had left a cabin there unlocked for emergencies. After snowplows had just cleared roads to the resort, Gutierrez went to check on the cabin and found Slaton inside the cabin near Lake Edison. Tiffany was dehydrated, but otherwise in good shape. She was taken to the hospital to be evaluated.
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Resilient Camper survives on wild leeks and is reunited with Family After Harrowing Ordeal in Sierra Nevada
During her ordeal, Slaton survived by seeking shelter in the cabin and consuming wild leeks. Her resilience and survival skills were praised by authorities, with a sheriff’s spokesperson calling her persistence a testament to her tenacity.
Slaton's parents expressed immense relief and gratitude upon learning she was safe. Her father described the day they received the news as one of the best of their lives. The family is now reunited, and Slaton is recovering well.
Rescued camper’s survival sparks investigation into wilderness safety and resilience
Authorities plan to interview Slaton to gain insights into her survival experience and to better understand how she endured the extreme conditions. Her story underscores the importance of preparedness and the human capacity for resilience in the face of adversity.
The Fresno County Sheriff’s Office had been searching for Tiffany Slaton, 27, using this public notice after she went missing while camping alone near Huntington Lake on April 20, 2025. Photo: Fresno County Sheriff Office
The discovery of Slaton was made possible after snowplows cleared key mountain access roads, allowing Gutierrez to reach the resort. This incident highlights the critical role of community efforts and foresight in ensuring safety in remote wilderness areas.
