Sam Benastick, a 20-year-old hiker, demonstrated incredible resilience and survival instincts when he endured over five weeks lost in the freezing wilderness of Redfern-Keily Provincial Park in Canada. Setting out on October 7 for what was meant to be a 10-day camping, hiking, and fishing trip, Sam’s journey took a harrowing turn. After failing to return as expected, he was reported missing on October 19, triggering a massive search operation involving local authorities, volunteers, and even his family members. Against all odds, Sam was found alive on November 26, marking an extraordinary survival story in extreme conditions.
Sam’s ordeal began as a solo adventure in the remote wilderness of British Columbia. Redfern-Keily Provincial Park, known for its rugged terrain and harsh weather, became the site of his battle for survival. Initially staying in his car for a couple of days, he later ventured deeper into the wilderness. His plan to camp for 10 days evolved into an unintentional, life-threatening test of endurance. Over the weeks, Sam adapted to the environment by moving down a valley and constructing a shelter in a dried creek bed. Despite freezing temperatures plummeting to as low as -4°F, he managed to stay alive, crafting makeshift tools and clothing from what was available.
The breakthrough in the search came on November 21, when two individuals traveling along the Redfern Lake trail noticed Sam. Using walking sticks for support and a cut-up sleeping bag wrapped around his legs for warmth, Sam flagged down the pair, who quickly recognized him as the missing hiker. The two rescuers rushed him to medical care while confirming his identity with local police. His survival astonished everyone involved, as such extreme conditions could have easily claimed a life.
Sam’s family, including his parents and uncle, had remained close to the search area throughout the ordeal. They stayed at the Buffalo Inn in Pink Mountain, BC, while over 100 volunteers joined the RCMP canine units and aerial support to comb through the vast wilderness. Mike Reid, the inn’s general manager, expressed amazement at Sam’s resilience, acknowledging the extreme challenges of surviving 50 days in such frigid conditions.
RCMP Communications spokesperson Madonna Saunderson described Sam’s survival as the “absolute best outcome” and noted the fears that had mounted as time went on. “Finding Sam alive is the result we had all hoped for but knew might not come,” she remarked.
After being found, Sam was treated for frostbite and smoke inhalation. His uncle, Al Benastick, described the situation as “unbelievable,” marveling at his nephew’s ability to endure prolonged exposure to severe cold. Search and rescue volunteer Adam Hawkins also highlighted the formidable nature of the environment, emphasizing how temperatures often dipped below -4°F and presented “incredibly challenging” survival conditions.
The RCMP extended heartfelt thanks to the various organizations and individuals who participated in the search. These included the Fort Nelson and North Peace Search and Rescue teams, the Canadian Rangers, and numerous local volunteers with extensive knowledge of the backcountry. Their collaborative effort was instrumental in locating Sam and bringing him back safely.
Sam’s story serves as a remarkable testament to human resilience and the importance of teamwork in life-threatening situations. Through sheer willpower and resourcefulness, he managed to survive an ordeal that many would consider impossible. His rescue stands as a shining example of hope, determination, and the enduring spirit of survival.