Missing Hiker Found ‘Alive and Alert’ in Isle Royale National Park

A 70-year-old hiker named Craig Berg was located “alive and alert” after disappearing a week earlier while hiking in Isle Royale National Park, officials reported on Saturday.

Berg was discovered suffering from hypothermia but was rescued by Coast Guard and Michigan State Police teams. “The Coast Guard and Michigan State Police rescued an injured, ailing man Saturday after he went missing in Isle Royale National Park on Sept. 5,” the U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes stated.

A video from the authorities captures a Coast Guard helicopter team hoisting Berg from the ground. He was then transferred to a regional airport in Gwinn for immediate medical assessment.

Officials have not revealed what transpired during Berg’s disappearance or further details about his injuries. He was identified by considerate backpackers before being reached by Michigan State Police foot patrols and K-9 units.

Several agencies, including the National Park Service and Michigan Department of Natural Resources, were involved in the search operation, which included a 45-foot Coast Guard boat, drones, and seaplanes. Lt. Ben Eckola, Michigan State Police public information officer, thanked the efforts of fellow hikers, Isle Royale Seaplanes, and No One Left Behind K9 Search and Rescue in finding Berg.

Berg, from Royal Oak, Michigan, began his solo hiking expedition in the national park on August 27. His failure to return on September 5 triggered the search.

Isle Royale National Park sits on a remote island in Lake Superior near the Canadian border. It’s known for its limited visitation and infrastructure, with only two rangers stationed and a couple of camp stores available.

His wife, Debbie, mentioned the park’s sparse facilities to the Detroit Free Press, noting the park’s minimal amenities. Communication is challenging in the park, with cell service often “unreliable,” and equipment like bicycles and drones typically prohibited, as indicated by the park’s website.