Snowmobiles outside a snowmobiler cabin in the Hunter's Range area (Image Credit: Vernon Search and Rescue / Facebook)

By Liam Verster

VSAR Rescue

First-time snowmobiler rescued after getting separated from group

Feb 3, 2026 | 9:33 AM

A snowmobiler who was out riding for the first time was rescued after getting lost in the Hunters Range area.

Vernon Search and Rescue (VSAR) said the snowmobiler was out with two other riders but got separated from the group.

The rider managed to call 911 and report themselves as being lost before their phone died.

VSAR dispatched a team and found the rider, who was very cold and wet as they had no means of starting a fire, but was otherwise unharmed.

During the rescue, the rider’s companions came across the scene, and they guided the rescue party and the lost rider to a snowmobiler cabin where they were able to warm up and dry their clothes.

Charger rollout

Phased approach planned for EV chargers at Vernon ALC

Apr 24, 2026

Secondary Dwellings

Coldstream considering more housing on agricultural lands

Apr 24, 2026

Wildfire Risks

Okanagan's Fire Danger Rating already up to Moderate

Apr 23, 2026

VSAR then escorted the trio down the mountain and back to civilization.

“We’re sure this was quite the eye-opening experience for our caller as to how inhospitable and unforgiving mother nature can be in the backcountry, how important good group travelling habits are, and how long it can take outside assistance to arrive to even reasonably close backcountry locations,” VSAR said in a social media post.

“Stepping away from any finger pointing ‘could have, should have, would have,’ we must commend our caller for carrying at least some mode of outside communication. Being in an area on the mountain that happens to have cell coverage, making the decision to call 9-1-1, and staying put with their machine until we could arrive. We are certainly thankful that this one turned out as well as it did for our caller!”

by Liam Verster

View Comments