On 6/6/2024, at 7:25 pm, Gallatin County Dispatch received notification of a disoriented and exhausted hiker who was discovered by a good Samaritan near Mystic Lake Cabin.  The disoriented hiker was unable to hike out on her own due to exhaustion and falling darkness and did not have adequate supplies to spend the night.  The good Samaritan escorted the hiker to Mystic Lake cabin and waited with them for emergency responders.

Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue (GCSSAR) volunteers from the Valley section responded along with Gallatin County Sheriff’s Deputies. Using specialized off-road vehicles, GCSSAR volunteers were able to locate and access the hiker. After a medical evaluation, they were provided a ride to the trail head without further incident.

Sheriff Dan Springer would like to commend the good Samaritan for having adequate supplies and a communication plan while recreating in the back country. It is always a good idea to bring enough gear to potentially stay the night in the back country, even when just going for a short hike. After all, you may not need the equipment for yourself, but somebody else.