A 34-year-old man named Lukas McClish survived for ten days in the Santa Cruz Mountains after getting lost during a hike. The area where he went missing had been affected by wildfires, making it difficult for him to find his bearings.
McClish, who is from Boulder Creek, initially planned for a three-hour hike but ended up getting lost due to the destruction of previous landmarks caused by the wildfire. He was reported missing on June 11 and was found alive on Thursday, June 20.
During his time in the wilderness, McClish survived by drinking water from creeks and eating wild berries. He had only a pair of pants, hiking shoes, hat, flashlight and folding scissors with him when he went hiking.
McClish was found near Foreman Creek in a remote canyon characterized by boulders, shale and steep terrain. The search for him involved multiple agencies including the Santa Cruz County Sheriff's Office, Boulder Creek Fire Protection District and California State Parks.
The exact cause of his disappearance remains unclear, but it is believed that he may have gotten disoriented due to the wildfire damage.
McClish was taken to a hospital for evaluation after being found. His family expressed their relief and gratitude for all the efforts made by emergency responders in locating him.
