Lukas McClish, 34, was found safe in the Santa Cruz Mountains after surviving for ten days lost in the wilderness. Despite challenges from recent wildfires, he was discovered with no major injuries, thanks to a large-scale search effort.
California Hiker Survives 10 Days Lost in Santa Cruz Mountains
Lukas McClish, 34, was found safe on June 20, 2023, after being lost for ten days in the Santa Cruz Mountains. McClish, an experienced hiker, ventured on a planned three-hour hike in Big Basin Redwoods State Park on June 11 but became disoriented, partly due to changes in the landscape from recent wildfires.
When McClish did not show up for a Father’s Day dinner on June 16, his family reported him missing, prompting a large-scale search effort involving nearly 300 personnel. Utilizing drones and sniffer dogs, search and rescue teams located McClish after hearing his calls for help.
During the ordeal, McClish survived on creek water, wild berries, and minimal gear, losing around 30 pounds. He was discovered with no major injuries and needed only one night in a hospital before reuniting with his family.
The search was concentrated in Big Basin Redwoods State Park, an area drastically altered by the CZU Lightning Complex fire in 2020, which obscured usual landmarks and trails. Despite his ordeal, McClish expressed gratitude for the rescue efforts and the experience.
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