A hiker who went missing in the frigid wilderness of northern British Columbia has been located alive after an astonishing 50 days. Sam Benastick was discovered on Tuesday by two workers near the secluded Redfern-Keily Provincial Park, situated about 250 kilometers northwest of Fort St. John, as reported by the Northern Rockies RCMP detachment. The men, recognizing Benastick, promptly transported him to a hospital where police confirmed his identity. Benastick embarked on a solo camping adventure in the park on October 7, initially planned for a 10-day excursion that was supposed to conclude on October 17. When he didn’t return as scheduled, his family alerted law enforcement, sparking a search operation. According to Benastick, he first spent a few days in his vehicle before trekking to a creek on the mountainside, where he camped for roughly 10 to 15 days. He later established a camp in a dry creek bed as he made his way towards the Redfern Lake Trail, where he caught the attention of the two men who ultimately rescued him. Cpl. Madonna Saunderson of the B.C. RCMP expressed immense relief, stating, “Finding Sam alive is the absolute best outcome.” Authorities had feared a tragic conclusion after such an extended period. Initially believed to be equipped with a tarp, a black Osprey backpack, and other essentials when he set out, Benastick was also thought to have used a Honda dirt bike in the park prior to his disappearance. Despite extensive search efforts, including the deployment of search and rescue teams and police dogs, no trace of him was uncovered until his rescue. The RCMP highlighted the unparalleled commitment of those involved in the search, expressing gratitude for the positive outcome. Meanwhile, the weather in the area has plummeted to below -20°C, with accumulating snowfall. Redfern-Keily Provincial Park is renowned for its stunning and rugged terrain within the northern Rocky Mountains, characterized by unique glaciers, alpine tundra, and diverse wildlife, according to BC Parks.
