A Chicago family had a fortunate escape after they became stranded atop the Greenhorn mountains in Colorado. The family, consisting of three adults and two children, embarked on a hike on the Greenhorn Trailhead and found themselves slowed down by worsening conditions along the icy terrain. The unexpected snow and high altitude took a toll on the family, leaving them fatigued and without adequate food or clothing for the freezing weather.
Realizing they wouldn’t be able to make it back to their starting point, the family promptly called 911 for help as nightfall set in and temperatures dropped. A multi-agency rescue team, including members of the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office volunteer Search and Rescue (SAR), was quickly assembled and airlifted to the top of North Peak using GPS signals to locate the stranded family.
The SAR team provided the shivering family with food, water, and extra clothing, and then hiked with them for about a mile over the peak where they were met by fire personnel. Together, they completed the rest of the hike to the top of Ophir Creek where emergency vehicles were waiting. The entire rescue operation took seven hours to complete.
Despite the dangerous situation they found themselves in, the family received praise from the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office for taking precautions before the hike, including having an outdoor survival kit and informing their relatives of their plans. They also followed instructions from the 911 operator and remained in one location until rescuers arrived.
The PCSO used this incident to remind mountain hikers to be prepared and aware of rapidly changing conditions before setting out, especially during the winter months when temperatures drop drastically. The Greenhorn Trail, where the family was hiking, is 7.8 miles long and reaches an elevation of 11,340 feet. The Forest Service rates it as a moderate trail for hiking.
Overall, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and taking necessary precautions while enjoying outdoor activities in challenging environments.
