Illinois Hunter Survives Two Nights in Colorado Snowstorm After Getting Lost in Wilderness
RAWAH WILDERNESS, Colo. — A 57-year-old hunter from Illinois is safe after surviving two nights alone in the Colorado wilderness during a severe snowstorm that thwarted early search efforts.
Disappearance in Harsh Conditions
The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) said it received a report on Sept. 22 about the man going missing in the Rawah Wilderness, located in the southern Medicine Bow Mountain Range.
He had last contacted his group around 3:21 p.m., telling them he was lost after becoming separated. Despite attempts to ping his phone, darkness and worsening weather made it too dangerous for rescuers to deploy that night.
Search Hampered by Snowstorm
Ground teams launched a search the following morning but were hindered by snow, strong winds, and freezing temperatures. Air support was grounded due to the storm, and after 10 hours, the operation was suspended overnight.
The storm was described by the Routt County Search and Rescue team as an “intense early season snowstorm,” the same system linked to the deaths of two hunters struck by lightning in southern Colorado earlier that week.
Found Alive After 911 Calls
On Sept. 24, the missing hunter managed to place several 911 calls. Authorities located him around 1 p.m., alive and in surprisingly good condition given the conditions.
The JCSO credited his survival to his military training, warm clothing, sleeping bag, and ability to start a fire. “He was found to be in good health and credited his survival to staying calm, starting a fire, and using his sleeping bag and clothing to stay warm,” the sheriff’s office said.
Community Relief and Thanks
The sheriff’s office praised the ground teams, K9 units, and multiple agencies that assisted in the search, noting their teamwork was essential in ensuring the man’s safe return.
While his name has not been released, officials confirmed he was reunited with family and did not require extensive medical care.
Have you ever experienced getting lost or stranded outdoors during severe weather? Share your survival stories and tips in the comments on SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
