Hiker Rescued After Losing Leg Sensation from Stinging Nettles in California Mountains

A hiker in the Sierra Nevada mountains was rescued after mistakenly identifying a stinging nettle encounter as a spider bite.

The hiker lost sensation in her legs after contact with stinging nettles while fetching water.
She managed to call for help and share her coordinates before her phone battery died.
Rescuers navigated difficult terrain to reach and safely escort her down the mountain.
Initial reports suggested a spider bite, but it was later identified as stinging nettle irritation.
Officials advise hikers to carry power banks and be cautious of overgrown, less-maintained trails.