Hiker rescued by helicopter in Iron County

Emergency crews rescued a 51 year old hiker found in serious condition Friday night .

Brian Cummins had fallen 200 feet down a hillside.

The man called into Cedar Communications at around 7:14 p.m. after breaking his ankle and falling 200 feet from a 9,300-foot peak located in a remote area in north eastern Iron County, near Little Creek Peak.

Unable to get cell service after the fall, Cummins said he crawled back up the hillside until he got service.

While on the phone with dispatchers, Cummins reported that a small bear approached him.

The victim said he was able to get the bear away from him by throwing a hatchet.

Rescuers said bear tracks were found about a half-mile from where Cummins was located.

Due to the remote area, the Utah Highway Patrol Helicopter was dispatched to assist using their hoist capabilities.