**Missing Hiker Survives Five Weeks in Wilderness, Rescued in British Columbia**

The 20-year-old's ordeal highlights both the dangers of the rugged wilderness and the tenacity of local search efforts.

Sam Benastick, a young and seasoned hiker, was discovered alive in the challenging wilderness terrain of British Columbia after being reported missing since October 19. Initially, he embarked on a 10-day fishing and hiking excursion in the remote Redfern-Keily Park but failed to return, prompting extensive search and rescue operations that were eventually called off in late October.

The rescue came unexpectedly on a Tuesday when two individuals working near the Redfern Lake trail spotted Benastick walking toward them. Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Cpl Madonna Saunderson expressed relief at the news, stating, "Given all the time he was missing, a different outcome had been feared. We're very grateful. The family is thrilled," and clarified that Benastick had become lost in the wilderness.

Upon his return, Benastick recounted his experience. After spending a couple of days in his vehicle, he made the decision to venture to a creek, where he camped for an estimated 10 to 15 days. Equipped with just a tarp, a backpack, and minimal camping supplies, he survived harsh winter conditions that saw temperatures plummet to around -20C (-4F).

Search manager Adam Smith from Prince George Search and Rescue commented on the extreme challenges posed by the environment, noting, "Those are very difficult conditions for really anyone to survive in, especially with limited supplies and equipment and food." The area in which Benastick was found featured steep cliffs and glaciated terrains, complicating rescue efforts undertaken by multiple teams, including the Canadian Rangers and local volunteers.

Little is known about Benastick’s physical state following his rescue, but reports indicate he was taken to a hospital in poor condition. According to local innkeeper Mike Reid, with whom Benastick's family stayed during the search, he had ingeniously used parts of his sleeping bag to keep warm, though he struggled to remain conscious upon his rescue.

Before his disappearance, the last confirmed sighting of Benastick was at a trailhead near Redfern Lake. Smith expressed a desire to learn more about Benastick's experience and location during his time in the wilderness to enhance future search and rescue strategies, emphasizing the ongoing challenges of searching vast wilderness areas.