Missing Hiker Sam Benastick Found Alive After Over Five Weeks in Wilderness

Sam Benastick, who vanished while on a hiking trip, endured freezing temperatures and challenging conditions but ultimately was rescued by passersby.

A dramatic rescue unfolded in the northern Rocky Mountains of British Columbia as 20-year-old hiker Sam Benastick was found alive after being missing for more than five weeks. He disappeared during a 10-day fishing and hiking trip in Redfern-Keily Park, triggering concern among authorities and his family after his last contact on October 19. Initial search operations, which involved multiple teams including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Canadian Rangers, were halted in late October due to harsh winter conditions and dwindling hopes of finding him alive.

On Tuesday, the turning point came when two individuals working their way to the Redfern Lake trail spotted Benastick walking toward them. Despite the passage of time and the dropping temperatures plummeting to -20C (-4F), which led many to expect the worst, he was discovered alive and conscious. "We are extremely grateful, and the family is thrilled. He had simply gotten lost,” stated Cpl. Madonna Saunderson of the RCMP.

Reports suggest that Benastick initially stayed in his vehicle for a few days before trekking to a nearby creek where he camped for 10 to 15 days. With just a tarp, backpack, and minimal camping supplies, he faced formidable challenges in the wilderness. As conditions worsened with snowfall, he heroically built a makeshift shelter in a dried creek bed.

Prince George Search and Rescue manager, Adam Smith, noted how extraordinary it was for Benastick to survive under such harsh circumstances, emphasizing the difficulty even seasoned hikers would have faced. The search teams combed vast areas of rugged terrain, characterized by steep cliffs and remote valleys, prior to Benastick’s eventual rediscovery.

While the full account of his experience remains unclear, local inn owner Mike Reid shared that Benastick had ingeniously wrapped his legs in a cut sleeping bag to keep warm. Upon rescue, he appeared in “rough shape” and required immediate medical attention, being transported to a local hospital.

As investigations continue to piece together the events of the last five weeks, Smith expressed a desire to learn more about Benastick's experience to improve future search-and-rescue operations, highlighting the importance of gaining insights from each unique situation.