Flashing lights on mountain lead to rescue of lost hiker, Colorado officials say

Don Sweeney
·2 min read
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Flashing lights spotted on a Colorado peak led rescuers to a lost hiker, sheriff’s officials reported.

Someone reported seeing lights on North Maroon Peak at 9:12 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 8, the Pitkin County Sheriff’s Office said in a news release.

But a drone sent up by Mountain Rescue Aspen failed to find the source of the lights along the 8-mile round-trip route to the peak, officials said.

More reports of flashing lights along the trail came in early on Saturday, Sept. 9, and two Mountain Rescue Aspen volunteers hiked up the mountain to look for the source, officials said.

They found a lost hiker at 6:40 a.m., provided him with food and water, and hiked out with him, officials said. He told rescuers he had deviated from the trail and become lost.

North Maroon Peak is near Aspen, about 160 miles southwest of Denver.

How to be prepared while hiking

If you’re planning to hike, the National Park Service says there are 10 essentials you should take:

  • Navigation: Pack a map, compass and a GPS system. Make sure you study your route beforehand and understand how to use the tools.

  • Sun protection: Sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat can help protect your skin and eyes from UV rays.

  • Insulation: A jacket, hat, gloves, raincoat and thermal underwear can help you be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions.

  • Illumination: A flashlight, lantern and headlamp can create light if you get stuck in the dark — and don’t forget to pack extra batteries.

  • First-aid supplies: It’s a good idea to have a first-aid kit on hand while hiking. Check the expiration date on items before you pack them.

  • Fire: Matches and a lighter can help start fire to act as an emergency signal in times of need.

  • Repair kit and tools: Duct tape, a knife, screwdriver and scissors can be helpful if items break during your hike or you need assistance.

  • Nutrition: You should pack an extra day’s worth of food in case something goes wrong. Park officials recommend having “salty and easy to digest snacks.”

  • Hydration: You should drink water often and before you feel thirsty if you’re hiking in hot weather. Keeping your body hydrated is “of utmost importance,” park officials said.

  • Emergency shelter: Packing a tent, space blanket, tarp and bivy can help you be prepared if severe weather breaks out or your plan takes a turn.

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