Search team discovers deceased American hiker, aged 27, in secluded Spanish National Park following extensive multi-week search effort
In tragic news, Cole Henderson, a 27-year-old US hiker, has been found dead in the Spanish Pyrenees. The body of the adventurer was discovered by mountain rescue teams on August 8 at approximately 1:15pm, in a difficult-to-access area on the north face of Monte Perdido, in the municipality of Bielsa.
Authorities were alerted to Henderson's absence on July 14, when he failed to check in for his flight back to the Netherlands. Cole Henderson lived and worked in the Netherlands. His parents flew to the country to join the search efforts, but have now returned to the US.
The exact circumstances surrounding Henderson's death are still under investigation. However, it is believed that he had sustained a significant fall of about 650ft (200m). Cole Henderson was last heard from on July 9, when he messaged friends to say he was beginning a hike and would be switching his phone to airplane mode.
This unfortunate incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with hiking alone in remote areas. For those who enjoy exploring the wilderness, it is crucial to take necessary precautions to ensure safety.
One of the most important safety tips is to leave a detailed trip plan with someone you trust. This plan should include your planned route, estimated times, emergency contacts, and return plans, which helps rescuers find you quickly if necessary. This plan should be shared before your hike and a copy left at home.
Another essential safety measure is the use of satellite communicators like the Garmin inReach Mini 2. These devices enable two-way messaging, location sharing, and emergency SOS calls anywhere satellite coverage exists, independent of cell towers. These devices are lightweight and reliable in remote terrain, crucial when cellular signals are unavailable. Carrying a personal locator beacon (PLB) is also recommended for severe emergencies.
When venturing into remote areas with limited cell coverage, additional safety measures include researching and preparing for trail conditions, weather, and hazards before departure. Carrying physical maps and offline GPS apps as backup navigation is also advisable. Bringing safety essentials like first aid kits, extra clothing, food, water, and emergency shelter is also recommended.
Avoiding hiking alone when possible; having a companion improves safety, though solo hiking is still practiced with proper preparation. Carrying the 10 essentials is recommended for hiking adventures.
Subscribing to the website's newsletter can provide inspiration, tips, and guides for planning your next adventure. The news was reported by Spanish newspaper El Espanol. For those who love the thrill of the wilderness, remember to prioritise safety and preparedness to ensure a memorable and safe journey.
[1] OutdoorGearLab [2] REI Co-op [3] National Park Service
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