Two Hunters Missing in Colorado

[Indian Summer]

By now, most of you are probably aware of the massive search effort trying to find the two missing hunters in southern Colorado.I’ve been watching this story since the first day. Today is day six. Pretty worried about those two boys. Both 25 years old, 6 feet tall an and in good shape.

Interestingly I have been looking over the area where they went missing in detail. I’m considering burning 14 mule deer points to hunt there next year. It’s steep high elevation country. Wilderness. The trailhead sits at 10,500 feet and goes up from there.Their camping gear and backpacks were still in the vehicle. Sounds like they only planned to hunt for one day. That tells me they didn’t plan to cover many miles from the trailhead. There was a bad storm with rain and fog that moved in by the next day that lasted until Sunday. Thursday night, they sent a message saying they were losing use of their Garmin unit.I just cannot imagine not at least carrying the things needed to start a fire regardless of how far you are going. Your day pack should have at least that and a few other things. Fog can definitely make it really easy to get lost. Even in an area that you know well. It’s best to stay put.

At this point, the search effort is so massive that it’s hard to imagine they haven’t been found. Especially if they could start a fire. This tells me the outcome might not be good. Maybe lost footing in the fog at the top of a steep slope. But both of them? Maybe one fell While trying to help the other. I hunt alone most of the time. Don’t really carry much for first aid. I get by on common sense and by having a policy of taking zero risks. Hypothermia is always a big concern and something to be prepared for as well. I try to never get soaking wet. I’ll be interested to see what lesson we learn from this incident.

Prayers to those two boys, their families, and everyone who is out searching for them.

[7mmfan]

I've been following this somewhat as well for a few days. Haven't let my wife see it. I'm with you that the fact that they haven't been found at this point doesn't bode well, but I'm holding out hope for them.

[Indian Summer]

Latest update:
https://www.outdoorlife.com/survival/el ... do-search/

[RanchoSueno]

Some gal on the page claimed she checked them into a quality inn in delta, co on the 15th with 4 other hunters. Hopefully, they just haven't touched base or heard the news.

[Tigger]

oh my. if that is true, it is going to be really, really awkward. But given the circumstances, that may be the best outcome.

[>>>---WW---->]

First of all, I want to thank Indian Summer for starting this thread. And even more importantly, I pray for the safety of those lost hunters.

But there are a few points I'd like to mention. It seems to be of thought that the Garmin InReach signal may have been lost for one reason or another. Sometimes (old school) can be a good idea over (hi tech). So PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE, buy a GOOD compass and learn how to use it. Silva and Sunnto are two good brands that come to mind. And there are several good orienting classes on the internet if you need a refresher.

It was also mentioned that donations are being accepted. And I totally agree. Every little bit helps! But, when you purchase a Colorado game license a search and rescue fee is also included in the price of that license. But again, every little bit is greatly appreciated.

And never ever take off on a short hunt or after a wounded animal without some important gear at least in your pockets. Things like a (GOOD) compass, a knife, some sort of wet weather protection (even a $1.95 plastic poncho can save your life), and a couple of ways to start a fire. All of these can be and should be in your pants pockets at all times and backups of each should be in your pack. Heck, throw in some water and a snack if you want. You just never know how long or how far a wounded animal may take you or when the weather may turn.

If any of you guys and gals have any more good ideas, now would be a good time to post them or maybe even start another thread.

[Indian Summer]

Found. Deceased. No details at all yet.

https://cvillerightnow.com/news/208802- ... -colorado/

[saddlesore]

Killed by lightning

[Old school]

Tragic ending.