Canadian Hiker Found Alive After 50 Days in Harsh Wilderness

Sam Benastick, 20, survived freezing temperatures and isolation in British Columbia's rugged backcountry before being rescued by two workers.

Sam Benastick, an experienced hiker, went missing on October 7 during a planned 10-day solo trip in Redfern-Keily Provincial Park, British Columbia.
After his family reported him missing on October 19, a large search effort involving over 120 volunteers, police, and canine units was launched but officially suspended on October 29.
Benastick survived temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F) by staying in his car initially, camping near a creek, and building a makeshift shelter in a dried-out creek bed.
He was discovered on November 26 by two workers who recognized him on a service road and transported him to a hospital, where he is recovering from frostbite and smoke inhalation.
Authorities and family members have described his survival under such extreme conditions as miraculous, with his mother noting he was well-prepared but still faced immense challenges.