BAKERSFIELD, Calif. -- Within two weeks, two people have fallen down some trails that have existed for decades. Why the sudden influx of injuries, and what can hikers do to stay safe?

"I've actually been close to falling myself but fortunately, I had someone with me," said hiker Argelia Diaz.

That wasn't the case for one woman who slipped two weeks ago and fell 200 feet down the hill and lay there for several hours before anyone found her. She fractured her leg, just like another hiker did Sunday when she fell.

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Hikers ABC 23 spoke to say it's easy to underestimate the dangers of the steep hills of the Panorama Bluffs.

"Going downhill, you don't know what to expect sometimes," said Diaz. "Slippery rocks, there's little crevices you can get caught in," said Gilbert Angkahan.

Recent rainfall has also softened the dirt, making it easier for the ground to give way underfoot.

"The reason is mostly related to the ground being very green, more grass, and wet grass can be very slippery and so people can slide off and tumble down the bluffs," said Battalion Chief Garth Milam.

That's why safety officials and hikers say it's extremely important to step cautiously. "Just like anything else, if you're not watching your footing you're going to fall down," said Angkahan.

Here are some other tips:

Go with a hiking partner

Use a walking stick

Wear appropriate shoes

Hike during daylight hours so you can see

Always stay on the path