On Friday August 10, 2018 at 1050 hours Custer County Search and Rescue was activated to respond to a 23 year old male from Texas on the Dome Rock Canyon Trail near the Davenport Campground. Earlier that Friday morning two hikers on the Dome Rock Canyon Trail encountered the subject who reported he had been lost in the woods for approximately six days with no food or water. Three CCSAR teams including one Sheriff’s Deputy responded on ATVs along the Mace Trail then hiked the remaining distance on the Dome Rock Canyon Trail to access the subject. Once on scene, the subject was hydrated and provided medical attention. The subject was able to slowly walk with assistance to the ATVs and then driven to the Second Mace trailhead where he was transferred to Custer County EMS. While the subject was being evacuated, one of the initial reporting party members who stayed at the scene to wait for CCSAR, became ill and requested our assistance back to the trailhead. At the trailhead, EMS assessed the second subject and released her. The incident was completed at 2015 hours.
We would like to remind everyone entering the wilderness to always bring crucial supplies regardless of the expected distance and time out as well as extra supplies in case you are out for longer than anticipated. The “10 Essentials” at the very least are recommended. Also, be sure someone is aware of your specific plans such as where you are going, your route, when you expect to return and what to do in case you do not return.
