An overdue hiker on Vancouver Island has returned thanks to his resilience and ingenuity.
On Tuesday, July 8th, Alberni Valley Rescue Squad (AVRS) was contacted by RCMP to search for an overdue hiker in the Della Falls area of Strathcona Park.
Thanks to the hiker’s detailed trip plan, including photos of gear and route, AVRS could quickly take the necessary action.
A helicopter search began, and signs of the hiker were spotted.
Around 3:45 p.m., just hours after AVRS deployed their last team, the hiker walked into the AVRS Hall on his own.
The hiker told them that his vehicle broke down deep in the bush, and with determination, he built himself a wagon from vehicle parts. He then trekked for over four days before reaching a point where he could get a ride back to Port Alberni.
“This outcome highlights the importance of planning, preparation, and resilience in the backcountry,” an AVRS Facebook post reads.
“Be prepared. Travel smart. Let someone know your plan.”
To ensure you’re prepared for your next trip, AVRS recommends you leave a trip plan, carry a GPS or satellite device, use a reliable vehicle on backroads and, for this particular trip, consider the water taxi to reach Della Falls.
