This is the dramatic moment a stranded hiker was rescued from a cliff in California.

The mountaineer had been stuck for more than an hour on the Pacific Crest Trail in San Bernardino County on April 14.

The woman managed to send an emergency text to 911 using a Garmin-type emergency communications device.

Rescue 9 crews were then quickly dispatched by helicopter to airlift her from the rocky terrain.

Footage shows a crew member being lowered to reach the holidaymaker in the Whitewater area.

The hiker's legs and arms were visibly shaking as she clung desperately to the cliffside.

The rescuer then secured her in a harness and bear-hugged her as they were being lifted into the aircraft and transported to safety.

Officials said the woman was in a precarious position and had become exhausted due to unstable footing and the weight of her heavy backpack.