Hikers Rescued From Pacific Crest Trail, Two Remain Missing
Two hikers were rescued from the Pacific Crest Trail in Washington. However, two remain missing. The four hikers became stranded when an unexpected storm dumped several feet of snow on the area.
Matt Margiotta, Kyla Arnold, Kristopher Zitzewitz, and Alejandra Wilson, were all caught in the storm.
The trail is more than around 2,600 miles long, stretching from Mexico to the Canadian border. Hikers usually begin the trail between April and June.
As reported by PCTA.org, hikers are encouraged to avoid beginning too late or too early in the season, due to snow cover and high water. Average hikers travel around 30 miles per day. It usually takes between four to six months to complete the trail.
Early snowfall can be dangerous, if not deadly. If the snow covers trails and markers, hikers can easily become lost.
Matt Margiotta and Kyla Arnold called for help on Monday when they realized they were lost. Although they were experienced hikers, the snow was simply too deep to continue.
A rescue team responded to the area on foot. However, their efforts were thwarted by deep snow and fading daylight.
A helicopter was sent to the area on Tuesday morning. Margiotta and Arnold were rescued without incident. Neither of the hikers required medical attention.
Two hikers remain missing on the Pacific Crest Trail.
As reported by The Epoch Times, Alejandra Wilson was reported missing on Monday. Dane Wilson believes his daughter was 20 miles ahead of Margiotta and Arnold. Dane has not heard from his daughter since Friday.
Kristopher Zitzewitz was reported missing on Saturday. His hiking partner reported that they lost contact near the Big Lava Beds in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
The search for Wilson and Zitzewitz resumed today. Officials say the search will include several groups on foot as well as numerous ATVs. Helicopters will also be used if weather permits.
Every year hundreds of hikers try the Pacific Crest Trail. The experience is unbelievable. However, if the weather turns, it can be deadly.
[Image via Wikimedia]
