SAGUACHE COUNTY — A hiker reported missing on Sunday has been rescued after spending 5 days in the wilderness in Saguache County.
The missing person was spotted early Thursday morning by another hiker traveling through the Cotton Creek drainage area.
Saguache County sent in one search and rescue team member who was dropped in via a Flight for Life helicopter about 1 mile above the spot where the missing party was last seen. A Chaffee County Search and Rescue ground team also hiked in from the other side with medical gear and supplies. Due to the difficulty of the terrain, distance to the trailhead and the missing person's injuries a military helicopter was requested to hoist the person to safety.
The rescued person was found with moderate clothing, search and rescue crews say this can serve as a reminder to all hikers to be prepared for any conditions when heading into the backcountry. It's also recommended hikers always let someone know where they are going and when return is expected so that help can be called if needed.
