Rescue of Missing Hiker in Isle Royale National Park

A 70-year-old man, Craig Berg, went missing while hiking in Isle Royale National Park but was found ‘alive and alert’ after a week, officials reported Saturday. Berg was rescued by Coast Guard and Michigan State Police teams, though he was suffering from hypothermia.

The U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes stated that Berg went missing on September 5 and was found on September 12. Video footage captured the moment when a helicopter crew from Coast Guard Air Station Traverse City lifted Berg from the ground. Following the rescue, he was taken to a regional airport in Gwinn for a medical evaluation.

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,

Details about what occurred during the week Berg was missing or specifics about his injuries have not been disclosed. ‘Good Samaritan’ backpackers encountered Berg in the park before he was reached by Michigan State Police foot patrols and K-9 units.

The extensive search involved numerous agencies and resources, including a 45-foot Coast Guard boat, drones, and seaplanes. The search effort also included the National Park Service, Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Keweenaw County Sheriff’s Office, Wisconsin State Patrol, and Minnesota Department of Public Safety.

Lt. Ben Eckola of Michigan State Police expressed gratitude, stating, ‘We’re also thankful to the fellow hikers who helped, Isle Royale Seaplanes, and No One Left Behind K9 Search and Rescue. Everyone’s efforts played an important part in finding Craig.’

Berg, a resident of Royal Oak, Michigan, began his hike on August 27 with plans for an extended solo expedition but failed to return on September 5, prompting the search.

Isle Royale National Park, situated on an island in Lake Superior near the Canadian border, is one of the least-visited national parks because of its remote location and limited infrastructure. Berg’s wife, Debbie, conveyed to the Detroit Free Press that there are only two rangers on the island and minimal amenities with just two camp stores and a lodge.

The park’s website notes that cell phone service is often ‘unreliable.’ Equipment like bicycles, motorized vehicles, and drones are generally prohibited on the island.

Reporter Bonny Chu provided this information for Fox News Digital.