First responders saved Lukas McClish on Friday after he got lost while treking near Big Basin Redwoods State Park in central California. McClish, 34, set out for a day hike and wound up stranded in the wilderness for over a week without even basic survival devices. The good news is, he endured and is back home with his household.
“Each day, I ‘d go up a canyon [and] down a canyon to the next waterfall, sit by the waterfall and drink water out of my boot,” McClish told KSBW News. He had no food or water, just a flashlight, a pair of folding scissors, the clothes on his back, and the boots on his feet. He states he didn’t bring anything due to the fact that he ‘d prepared to take a short hike. Nevertheless, he wound up needing to make it through on his own for nine nights and 10 days.
“I felt comfy the entire time I was out there,” McClish said in the KSBW interview. “I had a mountain lion that was following me, however it was cool. He kept his range. I think it was just someone monitoring me.”
Though McClish says he felt comfortable enough in the wilderness, he likewise states he dreamt of his next meal and wept out for help. Around day 5, he admits he began to feel like he remained in over his head.
Eventually, someone heard the lost hiker’s calls for aid, and rescuers discovered McClish shirtless and looking haggard.
McClish did not tell pals or family where he was going, so it took a while for them to realize he was missing out on. Even then, they didn’t know where to start looking.
Check out our day hiking essentials short article for ideas on how to pack for a day trek so you’re prepared in case of emergency situation.
Lukas McClish set out for a day hike and wound up stranded in the wilderness for over a week. Here’s how he endured.