READ: Two People Found Dead After Sasquatch Search in Washington Wilderness
Image from Skamania County Sheriff's Office.
Two men from Portland, Oregon, tragically lost their lives in Gifford Pinchot National Forest during a search for Sasquatch. The incident highlights the risks of exploring remote wilderness areas unprepared, particularly in harsh winter conditions.
The two men, aged 37 and 59, were reported missing on Christmas Day after failing to return from their Sasquatch expedition in eastern Skamania County on Christmas Eve. Authorities launched a search, eventually locating their vehicle abandoned near Willard, Washington. After a three-day effort involving over 60 search-and-rescue personnel, the men’s bodies were found in a heavily wooded section of the forest.
According to the Skamania County Sheriff’s Office, the men succumbed to exposure, exacerbated by severe weather and inadequate preparation. The region had experienced heavy snow and rain with temperatures dipping into the 30s, creating treacherous conditions. Search teams faced freezing temperatures, high water levels, and rugged terrain as they combed the area for the missing men.
Washington state alone has recorded over 700 sightings, according to the Bigfoot Field Researchers Organization. Skamania County has even implemented a law protecting the cryptid, with penalties of up to $1,000 and potential jail time for harming Bigfoot. The regulation aims to preserve the mystique of the legendary creature while preventing hunters from mistaking one another for the elusive beast.
The tragic deaths of these two men underscore the inherent dangers of venturing into remote wilderness areas, particularly in pursuit of cryptids or supernatural phenomena. While the thrill of the hunt can be exhilarating, safety should always be the priority. Here are essential precautions for anyone considering similar expeditions:
Plan Ahead: Research the area, weather, and terrain, and let someone know your itinerary.
Gear Up: Pack survival essentials like weather-appropriate clothing, food, navigation tools, and a first-aid kit.
Travel Safely: Go with a team of experienced individuals and avoid hazardous conditions.
Be Prepared: Carry a charged phone or satellite device and know basic survival skills.
The search for the unknown is full of possibilities, but preparation and caution are what ensure the journey is worth it. Please adventure wisely.
