North Shore Rescue Saves Lost Hiker in Suicide Gully

A 69-year-old hiker was rescued from Mount Seymour's Suicide Gully after getting lost while returning from Brockton Point. North Shore Rescue says the man was lucky to make it out safely.

Why Heading Downhill Can Turn Deadly

The hiker lost the trail and decided to head downhill, a move that can be fatal on the North Shore Mountains. Suicide Gully is steep and treacherous, with cliffs, drainages, and waterfalls. North Shore Rescue warns that what looks like an easy route often becomes much steeper and more dangerous.

How Rescuers Located the Hiker

The man reached a North Shore Rescue supply cache with signs advising lost hikers to stay put, but he continued bushwhacking to about 400 metres in elevation before gaining enough cell reception to call 911.

A ground team accessed the Spur 4 area of the Lower Seymour Conservation Reserve and hiked up to escort him out safely.

What You Should Do If You Get Lost

North Shore Rescue emphasises that lost hikers should stay in place. Moving downhill can make it harder for rescuers to locate you and can put both you and the team at greater risk. In this case, the hiker hadn't shared his plans or expected return time, meaning he could have been stranded overnight without gear or supplies.

What Every Winter Hiker Needs to Carry

Icy conditions make the trails even more hazardous. North Shore Rescue advises hikers to carry crampons or microspikes during winter hikes, stay aware of trail conditions, and always let someone know your plans before heading out.