Camp Sherman Hasty Team rescues PCT hiker

On Thursday, June 16, five members of the Camp Sherman Hasty Team responded to Carl Lake in the Mt. Jefferson Wilderness area to locate a lost Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) hiker. Alison Sterley of Anchorage, Alaska was located north and east of Carl Lake.

Sterley told team members that her cell phone, which she was using for navigation, had died and the snow on the PCT had forced her down. Sterley used her DeLorme satellite device to contact search and rescue.

Jefferson County SAR Coordinator Dave Blann said Sterley did the right thing calling for help as she was headed into the Cabot Creek drainage, which is a very difficult area to get out of.

"Unfortunately Alison was dependent on the app she used on her phone for navigation," Blann said. "After talking with the SAR members that located her, she is planning on purchasing a standalone GPS and refreshing her map and compass skills."

Blann strongly recommends anyone going into the woods bring the 10 essentials and to be sure to let someone know where you're going and when you will be returning. Be prepared, it's still winter up high.