A missing hiker survived five weeks in -4 degree temperatures, showcasing incredible resilience before being miraculously rescued in Canada.
A young hiker named Sam Benastick has been found alive after spending over five weeks lost in the cold wilderness of Canada.
His story has captured the attention of many and highlights the dangers of outdoor adventures.
Sam Benastick’s solo adventure begins in Redfern-Keily Park
Sam Benastick, 20 years old, started his trip on October 7, 2024.
He planned a 10-day camping, fishing, and hiking adventure in Redfern-Keily Provincial Park.
This park is located northwest of Fort St. John in British Columbia.
Sam was excited about his solo trip, but things took a turn when he did not return as expected.
The search for Sam intensifies after disappearance.
When Sam did not contact his family after ten days, they began to worry.
They reported him missing on October 19. The search for Sam quickly began, with the Northern Rockies Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) leading the efforts.
His family, along with over 100 volunteers, searched the area tirelessly.
They even had help from RCMP canine units and aerial support. While searching, Sam’s parents stayed at a local inn, hoping for good news.
Missing hiker miraculously survives -4 degree temperatures for five weeks before being rescued
After five long weeks, on November 26, Sam was finally found.
Two people who were working on the Redfern Lake trail spotted him and recognized he was the missing hiker.
They quickly took him to the hospital, where his identity was confirmed.
During his time in the wilderness, Sam faced extremely cold temperatures, which dropped as low as -4°F.
He explained to the authorities that he initially stayed in his car for a few days before deciding to walk.
He then found a creek and set up camp there for about 10 to 15 days.
Later, he moved to a dried-out creek bed, where he built a shelter to protect himself from the cold.
The hiker faced harsh conditions during his ordeal.
Sam was in rough shape when he was found. He had to rely on two walking sticks to support himself and used a cut-up sleeping bag to stay warm.
Despite the harsh conditions, his survival story is remarkable.
The temperatures were incredibly challenging, and many people are amazed that he managed to survive for such a long time.
Mike Reid, the general manager of the inn where Sam’s parents stayed, commented on the situation.
He said, “For 50 days out in that cold, he’s going to live. It’s amazing.” This reflects the disbelief many feel regarding Sam’s survival.
After being rescued, Sam’s family learned that he had suffered from frostbite and some smoke inhalation.
His uncle, Al Benastick, expressed his astonishment at Sam’s survival, saying, “Imagine being out there, being that cold, for that long.”
The conditions were tough, but Sam’s will to survive kept him going.
The community rallied to support Sam’s search.
The search for Sam showed the strength of community support.
Many volunteers joined the search effort, showing kindness and dedication.
The RCMP thanked all those who helped, including local search and rescue teams.
They emphasized the importance of teamwork and the resources used to locate Sam.
Madonna Saunderson, a spokesperson for the RCMP, shared her relief at the outcome.
She said, “Finding Sam alive is the absolute best outcome. After all the time he was missing, it was feared that this would not be the outcome.”
The gratitude expressed by the authorities and Sam’s family reflects the joy of having him back safe.