DENVER (KDVR) – The majestic peaks of Colorado continue to pose challenges for out-of-state drivers who venture into the state’s high-altitude terrain. Recent incidents underscore the hazards that await those unfamiliar with these rugged roads.
Earlier this month, a South Carolina man found himself in a tricky situation when his Kia Telluride became stuck, resulting in the closure of Black Bear Pass for over a day until authorities could safely clear the vehicle.
Adding to this trend, a father and son from Florida found themselves stranded on Thursday night amid the towering Colorado mountains.
In a related development that sheds light on wildlife management, California wildlife officers had to make the tough decision to euthanize several gray wolves following a series of livestock attacks.
As for the recent rescue, Hinsdale County Search and Rescue took to Facebook to report that just before 7 p.m. on Thursday, their volunteer team was called into action. They joined forces with neighboring counties, San Juan and Ouray, to assist a motorist caught in a bind on Engineer Pass.
To the Florida duo’s credit, they were driving a Jeep with a fair amount of ground clearance. However, Hinsdale County Search and Rescue noted that the motorists got stranded in about two feet of snow at about 4 p.m. as weather conditions worsened. Rescuers made contact with the pair shortly before 10 p.m.
Hinsdale County Search and Rescue shared photos of a recovery mission on Thursday for a Jeep that got stuck in a couple feet of snow. (Courtesy Hinsdale County Search and Rescue) Hinsdale County Search and Rescue shared photos of a recovery mission on Thursday for a Jeep that got stuck in a couple feet of snow. (Courtesy Hinsdale County Search and Rescue) Hinsdale County Search and Rescue shared photos of a recovery mission on Thursday for a Jeep that got stuck in a couple feet of snow. (Courtesy Hinsdale County Search and Rescue) The Jeep was stuck in about two feet of snow, and photos shared by the search and rescue team highlighted the area’s remoteness, cold weather, and windy conditions.
No additional details were provided.
Outside Magazine, a publication that covers outdoor adventuring, gear reviews, and more, shared a list of basic equipment overlanders should carry while on the trail, especially during the winter. The list includes a recovery board, a tree saver for a winch, hitch receiver recovery points, and more items to safely recover a vehicle.
The Colorado Department of Transportation also advocates for drivers heading up into the mountains during the winter to carry essential items, like water, a snow scraper, blanket or sleeping bag, non-perishable food and jumper cables. More information on that can be found here.
Colorado’s search and rescue groups are staffed by volunteers and Hinsdale County’s group is operated through the county sheriff’s office.
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