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Teen Hiker Dies After Fall on Challenging North Shore Route

A 16-year-old lost his life after slipping down a snow-filled gully near Lions Bay, prompting rescue efforts and warnings about spring backcountry conditions.

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File photo of Lions Bay. Photo: Jason Payne.
Motorists travel on the Sea-to-Sky highway between Horseshoe Bay and Lions Bay, B.C., on Friday, April 23, 2021. RCMP said a 16-year-old hiker died on May 4 after falling down a gully. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Darryl Dyck
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Overview

  • Two hikers became separated near Hat Mountain on Sunday, leading to a complex search and rescue operation involving air and ground teams.
  • The 16-year-old hiker fell down a steep, snow-filled gully and was found unresponsive by rescuers using ropes and night vision equipment.
  • North Shore Rescue deployed Talon Helicopters and hoisted the teen to Vancouver General Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
  • Authorities, including Sea to Sky RCMP and the B.C. Coroners Service, have launched an investigation into the circumstances of the incident.
  • Rescue teams and officials are renewing warnings about the dangers of unstable spring snow and ice on North Shore trails, following several recent fatalities.