First responders rescued Lukas McClish on Friday after he obtained misplaced whereas climbing close to Massive Basin Redwoods State Park in central California. McClish, 34, set out for a day hike and ended up stranded within the wilderness for over per week with out even fundamental survival tools. Fortunately, he survived and is again residence along with his household.
“Every day, I’d go up a canyon [and] down a canyon to the subsequent waterfall, sit by the waterfall and drink water out of my boot,” McClish advised KSBW Information. He had no meals or water, only a flashlight, a pair of folding scissors, the garments on his again, and the boots on his ft. He says he didn’t carry something as a result of he’d deliberate to take a brief hike. Nevertheless, he ended up having to outlive on his personal for 9 nights and 10 days.
“I felt comfy the entire time I used to be on the market,” McClish mentioned within the KSBW interview. “I had a mountain lion that was following me, but it surely was cool. He stored his distance. I believe it was simply somebody watching over me.”
Although McClish says he felt comfy sufficient within the wilderness, he additionally says he dreamt of his subsequent meal and cried out for assist. Round day 5, he admits he began to really feel like he was in over his head.
Finally, somebody heard the misplaced hiker’s requires assist, and rescuers discovered McClish shirtless and looking out haggard.
McClish didn’t inform buddies or household the place he was going, so it took some time for them to understand he was lacking. Even then, they didn’t know the place to start out wanting.
Take a look at our day climbing necessities article for tips about methods to pack for a day hike so that you’re ready in case of emergency.
