Stranded Backpacker Escapes Deep Snow Using Apple's SOS Feature on Malfunctioning Phone
Unfiltered Guide: A hiker, Gary Sullivan from Acton, nearly faced peril during a backpacking trip in the White Mountains due to underestimating conditions. He had all the necessary gear – a tent, Hike Safe card, the essential ten items, and even traction devices. However, he was misled by reports stating that snowshoes weren't needed, which turned out to be a disastrous decision.
On the second day, Sullivan encountered waist-deep snow near Mount Guyot. Losing the trail and struggling in the deep snow, he was eventually able to use his dying cell phone to text 911 via Apple's SOS function. The National Guard attempted a rescue by air, but unfavorable weather conditions forced them to send a ground team. The team located Sullivan at 5:20 PM, provided him with snowshoes, and led him out, reaching the trailhead in the dark at 10:05 PM.
This story serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of hiking, even for seasoned hikers. Spring conditions in the White Mountains might soften the snow, making Yaktrax inadequate, and demanding snowshoes or skis for flotation. If not for the SOS function, Sullivan's rescue might have been a more harrowing tale.
For backcountry hiking, consider investing in a Garmin InReach satellite communicator, or explore options like Overwatch x Rescue, which works with various satellite devices, including iPhones. Always carry a portable charger, like this lightweight one from Amazon, to combat battery drain caused by the cold.
If relying on the SOS function, ensure your emergency contacts are updated, your iPhone is iOS14 or above (in North America), and your Apple Watch is compatible. Include as much detail as possible about your condition and available gear in the SOS text. Bear in mind that cloudy skies might obstruct the SOS signal. For more insight, check out our article on Apple's SOS function.
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Enrichment Insights:- Traction devices like Kahtoola microspikes and Yaktrax are ideal for icy and firm snow trails but may not provide enough flotation in deep snow, leading to fatigue.- Snowshoes are generally best for deep snow conditions as they distribute the hiker's weight evenly across a large surface area, ensuring better flotation and reducing sinking.- In deep snow, snowshoes require more effort to move but offer better stability and prevent fatigue over long distances. Traction devices are lighter and easier to manage but may not perform as well in deep snow.
- Despite having traction devices, Gary Sullivan from Acton discovered that Yaktrax might be insufficient in deep snow like the one he encountered near Mount Guyot, which underscores the importance of having snowshoes for flotation in such conditions.
- Spring hiking in the White Mountains may require snowshoes or skis due to the unpredictable softening of the snow, making traction devices like Yaktrax inadequate. Gear up with snowshoes for better flotation, especially when venturing into deep snow areas.
