Artificial Intelligence (AI) is often regarded as the technology of the future that will help move society forward. But for a group of hikers, AI led them down a dangerous path.
Three Hikers Stranded in California After Using Google AI Directions
Artificial intelligence left three hikers stranded in California, per reports about an incident that took place on Mount Shasta.
"They were advised by Gemini to bring far less food and water than their group required. Especially when their planned 8-hour ascent became a multi-day ordeal," the Siskiyou County Sheriff's Office said in a statement obtained by ABC News.
Hikers Left Stranded After Using Google AI Directions
They did reach out to the sheriff's office for directions shortly after they started their route. But still ended up going down the wrong trail. That same night, one of the hikers injured himself after taking a spill. This made the situation even more dire. The hikers were left to set up camp in the area. They waited until the park rangers met them there the following morning. Upon the rangers' arrival, the hikers received medical care and were taken back to safety.
Following the incident, the sheriff's office warned future hikers that it is unsafe to rely solely on GPS directions when on the trail.
"While the Clear Creek Route on Mount Shasta is not a technical mountaineering route, it still requires climbers to be physically fit. And prepared for unforeseen circumstances, such as an injury, inclement weather, or unplanned overnight stay. Serious accidents and fatalities occur on the Clear Creek route when individuals become lost. And wander into more dangerous terrain, such as the Mud Creek drainage," the sheriff's office added.
"It is always advisable to call the local USFS Mount Shasta Ranger station ahead of your trip to ensure you have the most accurate information, and to never rely solely on AI for your trip planning."
