Officials at Sequoia National Park are reminding hikers to stay vigilant after a missing hiker was found dead in the park. The incident is the fifth fatality within Sequoia and Kings Canyon Parks this year.
According to a news release from the California park, 36-year-old Drew Hall was hiking in rugged terrain on Saturday, July 12, when he disappeared. He had reportedly separated from his group earlier in the day and made plans to meet later. When he failed to show up at the appointed time, family members reported him missing.
A search and rescue mission for Hall, a local resident of nearby Visalia, was launched on Sunday morning, but it was his own friends and family who discovered his body below Sawtooth Peak at around 3pm that day.
Hall is described in the report as "fit and active," and a GoFundMe account set up in his name says he was a basketball coach for Golden West High School and a father of two.
“We encourage everyone to take extra precautions and remain vigilant while enjoying the beauty of these National Parks. Safety must always come first," says Chief Ranger David Fox.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon emergency personnel say they have been activated for 60 search and rescue incidents this year, and this was one of five that occurred over this past weekend.
Hiking safety
It's always worth remembering that hiking and recreating in the backcountry is an inherently risky activity, and while tragic accidents may not be avoidable, there are steps you can take to help keep yourself safe.
- Leave a detailed plan of your hike with someone you trust.
- When possible, hike with a partner.
- Carry the 10 essentials, including extra layers, food and water, headlamp and first aid kit.
- Research your route and carry backup navigation tools (a map and compass).
- Stay within your ability level and stay aware of your surroundings.
- Check the mountain weather forecast before setting off and plan to start early.
- Know when to turn back.
- Make sure you have a reliable means of communication in case of emergencies such as a Garmin InReach or other satellite communicator.
