A group of local scouts helped a trio of hikers in distress in Golden Ears Provincial Park on Saturday, Nov. 22, before they were rescued.
Ridge Meadows Search and Rescue was called after three hikers lost the trail around the Evans Creek area in the afternoon as they came down the Golden Ears Peak trail. They stayed put, and called for help.
Fortunately, there was a group of scouts hiking along West Canyon, and heard the distressed hikers who were stranded on the other side of Evans Creek – which was impassable because of heavy rains. With one of the hikers experiencing cramps, the scout leader made a 911 call. The scouts managed to throw some supplies – water, snacks and emergency blankets – over to the hikers, tying light items to rocks.
Search and Rescue spokesperson Rick Laing said this trio of young hikers was sadly unprepared for their outdoor adventure. They made a wise decision not to attempt to continue on to the Golden Ears summit, but by the time they got back down to Evans Creek, it was swollen by rain and not passable. They were also unaware of a nearby bridge crossing, Laing said.
They were soaking wet from heavy rain, and one was wearing pyjamas, he noted and they were “probably on the verge of hypothermia.”
A Search and Rescue team was sent in via East Canyon Trail. They located the hikers and gave them some dry clothes (jackets) to wear, and helped them out of the woods.
Laing said the scout troop helped to give the hikers comfort, until they could be rescued.
“My daughter, Vaishnavi Pillai, 10, was part of the scout group, and it was a great example of preparedness, calm action, and youth stepping up to help in a real emergency,” said Vysakh Pillai.
The kids also helped out the SAR and Fire and Safety team preparing them dinner while the mission was going on, he said. The rescue team later gave the kids a tour of the mission control and took photos there.
“As the group commissioner for 1st Pitt Meadow Scout Group I am very proud of our cub pack and the scouters (leaders) who were on the this adventure,” said Michael Dunn. “Not only did they tent in the rain for two nights, they did all the right things when finding these lost hikers.
“Thank you to the Maple Ridge SAR team for everything they do. I also want to thank them for letting our kids participate, and showing them some of your equipment. Not only is this a learning experience, it is a core memory they will be keep for decades.”
Search and Rescue reminds hikers heading out to always be prepared with essentials, leave a trip plan, and research the trail they are hiking.
For info on leaving a trip plan and being best prepared visit AdventureSmart.ca
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