In a devastating incident on Sunday afternoon, a young woman lost her life after falling off a cliff in the Columbia River Gorge. The incident took place near the Oneonta Trailhead in Multnomah County, Oregon, according to Multnomah County Sheriff's Office Public Information Officer Deputy John Plock.

Authorities were alerted to the accident around 4:20 p.m., after which Cascade Locks Fire swiftly responded to the scene. Tragically, the woman was found deceased upon arrival.

Deputy Plock emphasized the importance of adhering to designated trails, stating, "These are difficult hiking trails, they're not walking paths. If you go off trail, it can be very dangerous. Unfortunately, that's what happened here. This young lady separated herself from her group, went off trail, and ended up falling."

Multnomah County Search and Rescue personnel were immediately called in to assist in the recovery of the hiker's body. Plock reiterated the perilous nature of venturing off marked trails, highlighting the wilderness in the area. "It's pretty easy to get in trouble up here," he warned. "As long as you are on a marked trail, you're pretty safe. As soon as you go off trail, it can become pretty dangerous. Unfortunately, we see people go off trail, fall, and too many of them have died."

Fortunately, the other members of the hiking party managed to make it back safely to the trailhead.

This tragic incident serves as a solemn reminder of the potential dangers involved in hiking and exploring rugged terrains. Authorities and rescue teams continue to urge individuals to stay on marked trails and exercise caution when venturing into the wilderness.

While the identity of the victim has not been disclosed, authorities have expressed their condolences to the family and friends affected by this heartbreaking loss.

The Multnomah County Sheriff's Office will be conducting a thorough investigation into the incident to gather further details surrounding the circumstances of the fatal fall.