Three hikers required rescue on Mount Shasta in California after relying on Google Gemini to organize their expedition. The group began their ascent at 3 am and reached the summit at 7 pm, significantly behind the recommended turnaround time of noon.
The hikers attempted to descend in darkness and eventually contacted the Siskiyou County sheriff’s office for assistance. They spent the night in Mud Creek Canyon before Forest Service rangers and volunteers located them the following morning.
According to the sheriff’s office, the AI chatbot provided inaccurate guidance regarding supplies. Gemini advised the group to carry significantly less food and water than necessary for the trip, which ultimately turned into a multi-day ordeal.
Local authorities emphasize that hikers should consult the USFS Mount Shasta ranger station for reliable information. Officials warn against relying exclusively on artificial intelligence tools for planning outdoor excursions.