A young hiker lost in the rugged expanse of the Canadian wilderness for over 50 days was found alive on November 26, 2024, bringing relief and astonishment to his family and search teams alike. Sam Benastick, only 20 years old, had embarked on what was meant to be a 10-day camping trip through British Columbia's Redfern-Keily Provincial Park on October 7. When he failed to return, his family reported him missing on October 19.
Authorities launched intensive search efforts involving more than 120 volunteers, along with search and rescue operations from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). The search spanned through challenging winter conditions, with temperatures plummeting below zero and snowfall complicates the already arduous situation. According to Adam Hawkins, the Prince George Search and Rescue Manager, the weather conditions presented incredible difficulties; they received over five inches of snow during Benastick's disappearance. A GoFundMe page was created to support the search efforts financially as concern for Benastick’s safety grew.
The hiker was eventually discovered by two men who were working on the Redfern Lake trail. They spotted Benastick struggling to walk, supported by two sticks, and wearing makeshift clothing fashioned from torn pieces of his sleeping bag. Mike Reid, the manager of the nearby inn where Benastick's family stayed during the search, recounted how they were baffled to see someone out there and didn’t immediately recognize him. “They said, ‘What the hell is this person doing walking on this road?’” Reid relayed. Once they approached, the men realized they had found the missing hiker, facilitating his rapid transport to the hospital.
Upon being found, Benastick was understandably exhausted and suffering from the harsh elements he endured. He had survived against the odds, but not without barriers. Reports indicated he had frostbite and smoke inhalation—his makeshift shelter had caught fire at one point, showcasing the unpredictable nature of wilderness survival. His uncle, Al Benastick, expressed disbelief at Sam’s long survival under such dire circumstances, stating, “Imagine being out there, being this cold, for so long.” His mother later humorously noted on social media his discontent about not catching any fish during his ordeal, showing the family's relief and sense of humor even amid the trials they faced.
Sam's survival story reflects not just his resilience but also the need for preparedness when tackling the great outdoors. Initially, Benastick started his trip by staying in his vehicle for the first few days before moving on foot to explore the mountain creeks. He camped at various points, constructing shelters out of natural materials he could find.
Cpl. Madonna Saunderson from the RCMP described Benastick’s return as “the absolute best outcome” for what had become increasingly scarce hope for his safe return. “After all the time he was missing, it was feared this would not be the outcome,” she noted, echoing sentiments felt by search teams and family members throughout the weeks.
Despite facing rural elements and his eventual health setbacks—frostbite and smoke inhalation—Benastick is expected to recover. His experience serves as both a harrowing reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by adventurers and the strength of community when rallying for one of their own.
Following the incident, his grandmother light-heartedly stated she would be gifting him GPS technology for Christmas—an acknowledgement of the lessons learned through their ordeal. The collective sigh of relief from his family is intermixed with the anticipation of hearing Sam's remarkable story firsthand; they are all just grateful he came out alive.
Benastick's ordeal highlights the importance of outdoor safety and preparedness, echoing the call for outdoor enthusiasts to respect nature's power and unpredictability. It’s not just about the thrill of adventure; it's also about ensuring one’s safety and having the right tools and knowledge when embarking on treks through wilderness areas.
