12-hour rescue mission at night saves hiker stuck in deep snow in Colorado

According to Douglas County Search and Rescue, their team was kept busy last weekend with multiple missions related to deep snow.

A first mission on the evening of March 23 involved the nighttime rescue of a hiker on the Colorado Trail who got caught in deep snow and was unable to self-rescue.

The hiker was multiple miles into the route when he got stuck, with it taking several hours to reach him and even more time to get him safely back to the trailhead. A drone was also used to help crews scout in areas where travel was difficult.

The entire mission took close to 12 hours, with the search and rescue organization noting that hikers should be aware that while trails may seem "dry and clear in many areas close to home," wilderness routes may still be very challenging.

After completing the mission involving the hiker, crews were again activated on the afternoon of March 24 to rescue two recreational motorists stuck in deep snow. This mission was also successful, with both motorists reported to be "safe and well."

The rescue team also provided several pieces of advice for staying safe during spring adventures in Colorado, including to choose routes carefully (and always be aware of route conditions), to carry the right communication devices that allow calling for help when cell phones may not work, to avoid traveling alone, and to take multiple forms of traction devices.

In terms of a communication device that works well in situations where one may become stuck in the backcountry, the Garmin inReach product line provides several great options.

If you're interested in supporting Colorado's volunteer-powered search and rescue operation, one way to do so is through the purchase of a CORSAR card. It's cheap, at only $5 per year.