Search Continues In San Bernardino Mountains For Missing Hiker, 59

BIG BEAR (CBSLA.com) — The search continued Friday for a Running Springs woman who went missing in the San Bernardino Mountains Tuesday.

Karen Dalman, 59, was last seen Tuesday after she and her hiking partner got separated in the Crystal Mountain area near the Eye of God trial.

Dalman and 56-year-old Bruce Jackson reportedly set out for a day hike to do mineral mining.

According to Jackson, Dalman was not feeling well, and the two were headed back to the car when Jackson's dog, a white pit bull, ran off.

Jackson, who left Dalman to go after the dog, was reportedly also lost for two days. Authorities say they are also looking for Jackson's dog.

On Thursday, Jackson returned back to his Erwin Lake home and contacted 911 to report Dalman missing. He was reportedly treated for dehydration.

Authorities said Dalman has medical issues and may not have proper medication with her.

"At the time that they went out they were just planning on a day hike," said Tiffany Swantek with the Big Bear Station. "So they weren't really prepared for any kind of extended length in the forest areas."

Swantek also said it was reported that the two really did not have any water or food with them and were not dressed appropriately for an extended period of time in the wilderness. Temperatures in the region Friday evening were expected to plunge into the 30s.

A bucket Dalman was carrying to collect crystals and her purse were found near the spot she went missing.

Dalman is 5 feet 2 inches and 125 pounds with blonde hair and hazel eyes.

Dan Nielsen, Dalman's son, joined the search for his mother. He told KCAL9's Tom Wait, "My mom doesn't hike. I'll tell you that right now." He added, "I'm obviously pretty distraught. I'm not too stupid on the whole matter, we're a couple of days into it."

Bob Mark, who has known Dalman and Jackson for a decade, told KCAL9's Adrianna Weingold that he was worried about Dalman being out in the elements. "She's not a survivalist. She doesn't know how to make fires or surviving. This is not a good thing. Not at all."

Anyone with information is asked to contact the San Bernardino Sheriff's Department.