Two Hikers Rescued from Saugatuck Dunes Earlier this Month

Graafschap Fire and Rescue responders (photo by Steve Ralph)

based on a news article in the Holland Sentinel, "Hikers rescued from dunes," by Steve Ralph, Jan 3, 2009

Two hikers from Saugatuck became disoriented and lost their way in woods they were familiar with, providing a lesson on planning for possible emergencies. They began their hike at the Felt Mansion at about 4:30 pm, and realized about two hours later that they were unable to find their way back. The incident occurred January 3 in Laketown Township of Allegan County.

Albert Gibson and Daniel Hansen (aged 43 and 54) had a cell phone with them, and called for help. The Graafschap Fire and Rescue and Michigan State Police responded at 6:30 pm, after dark on that date.

A search and rescue operation base was set up at Saugatuck Dunes State Park. The rescue team used ATVs to search for the men, and located them before 8 pm on the beach near 144th Avenue and 66th Street. They were transported out on a trailer pulled by the ATV.

Despite freezing temperatures the hikers suffered no physical ill effects. However, they declined to be interviewed, saying, “It’s just too humiliating.”

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