Three snowmobilers were rescued after spending the Valentine's Day night on Boulder Mountain near Revelstoke, RCMP say.
Revelstoke Search & Rescue was called into action after the boyfriend of one of the snowmobilers didn't return home from a snowmobile trip on Sunday.
The boyfriend contacted the RCMP, who found the woman's car still in the Smokey Bear parking lot. SAR was activated and 13 members stayed out on the mountain to prepare for a search in the morning.
The search resumed Monday morning and a helicopter was able to fly into the area and spot the three missing snowmobilers. They were given a radio and they reported being in good condition. They were airlifted off the mountain by SAR to a waiting ambulance to be checked out.
“The search and rescue effort was quite intensive given the terrain encountered by the SAR technicians, once again highlighting the skill level and dedication of the area SAR volunteers,” stated RCMP Cpl. Dan Moskaluk.
He said the snowmobilers were in good shape and were well prepared for an emergency. They had extra food, emergency backcountry gear and were able to make a shelter and start a fire.
"Area familiarity and knowledge are key factors to staying safe while enjoying the backcountry and it is one thing that you have to keep an eye during your excursions and take into account in your trip planning." stated Cpl. Dan Moskaluk.