Crazy story of a 23 year old Illinois woman who got turned around during short hike in Montana’s Great Bear Wilderness, panicked, and pushed onward hiking 10 miles daily until she was miraculously discovered by a search team deep in the 300,000 acres of mountainous terrain in the heart of bear country.

As the rescuers approached Madeline Connelly called out, “Are you looking for me?” and they replied, “The whole world’s looking for you!” 

Just goes to show that even a short hike can turn into a life or death struggle if you are unprepared. Be smart, be safe, remember this story next time you venture into the backcountry:

Here’s footage from the heli rescue:

Here’s an interview with Madeline shortly after she was rescued:

 

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Francis Xavier is a seasoned writer for Unofficial Networks, bringing a lifetime of outdoor experience to his work. Having lived in a ski resort town for years he has a deep connection to mountain culture....