North Shore Rescue said the overnight search in the Norvan Falls area ended happily because of a fortunate discovery
A missing hiker who sparked a search in the North Shore mountains has been found safe — and might have a blue tarp to thank for staying alive overnight and being spotted by rescuers after daylight.
North Shore Rescue members, including three thermal drone pilots and swift-water rescue specialists, began scouring the area around Norvan Falls on Saturday evening, setting up camp at Lynn Headwaters Regional Park. Also involved in the search were RCMP police dog services.
The search was resumed Sunday morning with helicopters aloft, even as weather conditions deteriorated. Rain and wind were an issue, and a storm system bringing up to 120 millimetres of rain to the area was forecast to move in.
Early Sunday afternoon, North Shore Rescue posted an update on social media that the hiker was found safe close to Norvan Falls northeast of Grouse Mountain. The search subject was described as “cold and wet, but uninjured.
“They were very lucky to find a large blue tarp to use as shelter overnight, which also assisted in locating them from the air,” read a statement from the volunteer-run rescue organization.
The tarp was key: “A great example of why wearing bright colours in the backcountry can potentially save your life.”
North Shore Rescue thanked search crews from Coquitlam and Lions Bay, Talon Helicopters, park rangers from Lynn Headwaters, North Vancouver RCMP and the emergency co-ordination centre for their help.