High Sierra Topix

A 59 year old man from Chicago planned a two week trip starting at the Virginia Lakes trailhead to Tuolumne and back. While returning toward the end of his trip at Summit Lake, he encountered a snow storm. He had been hesitant to proceed on the final stretch of his trip because of the snow conditions as he was not equipped for them. But assurance from a Tuolumne ranger that the snow would quickly melt, he decided to finish his trip. He camped for two nights using an emergency blanket, tarp, and sleeping bag for shelter. His sleeping bag, clothing, and shoes quickly became wet from the snow. Luckily he had a Delorme Inreach with him, and his wife back in Chicago was monitoring his progress with concern. His wife contacted the Sheriff's Office to inquire about getting him rescued. A helicopter was used to extract him. CHP helicopter H40 was able to locate and extract him within two hours of request. He was flown to Bridgeport airport and transported back to his car at Virginia Lakes.