KEWEENAW COUNTY, Mich. – A week‑long search effort by the U.S. Coast Guard, Michigan State Police and local volunteers ended successfully on Saturday when 70‑year‑old hiker Craig Berg was found alive on Isle Royale National Park.
Berg had been missing since Sept. 5, prompting a coordinated response that included backpackers in the area, K‑9 units and a Coast Guard boat and helicopter dispatched on Friday. Troopers and their canine partners located Berg on the remote island, where he was injured and suffering from hypothermia but remained alert.
Rescue operation
An MH‑60 Jayhawk helicopter crew from Coast Guard Air Station Traverse City hoisted Berg from the island and flew him to Marquette Regional Airport in Gwinn, Michigan. Emergency medical services met the helicopter on arrival and transported him to a local hospital for further care.
“We’re thankful that missing hiker, Craig Berg, was found alive and alert on Isle Royale,” said Michigan State Police Lt. Ben Eckola in a statement. He also thanked the many agencies and individuals who participated in the search.
Coast Guard Senior Chief Petty Officer Wendy Janson added, “This rescue is a testament to teamwork and what can be accomplished when first responders and members of the community come together. We are extremely grateful we were able to get Mr. Berg safely off the island and deliver him to the medical care he needed.”
Community involvement
The successful outcome highlights the importance of community cooperation in remote‑area rescues. Local backpackers who were in the vicinity provided critical information that helped guide search teams to Berg’s location. Their willingness to assist underscores the strong spirit of neighborly aid that characterizes Michigan’s northern regions.
Authorities have not released further details about Berg’s condition or the circumstances that led to his disappearance. The Coast Guard and state police continue to review the incident to improve future response efforts.
Safety reminder
Officials remind hikers and outdoor enthusiasts to prepare thoroughly for trips in remote wilderness areas, especially during early fall when weather can change rapidly. Carrying proper navigation tools, informing someone of your itinerary and being equipped for cold conditions are essential steps to prevent similar incidents.
For more information on safe hiking practices in Michigan’s state and national parks, visit the Michigan Department of Natural Resources website or contact local law‑enforcement agencies.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
