Stranded hikers spend a cold night in Okanagan Mountain Park south of Kelowna

Cold night for hikers

Photo: COSAR

A group of stranded hikers was brought to safety early Sunday morning after spending the night in Okanagan Mountain Park.

UPDATE 2:20 p.m.

Penticton and District Search and Rescue said the hikers trapped overnight in Okanagan Mountain Park were not adequately prepared for winter conditions.

"After convening at the hall and establishing contact with the subjects, a plan was developed in agreement with them for the group to remain in place overnight," PenSAR said.

"Responder safety is always our top priority. While we will do everything we can to assist those in need, decisions are made carefully to ensure the safety of both our members and the public."

Sunday at dawn, helicopters were dispatched to the stranded hikers, who were safely retrieved around 9 a.m.

PenSAR thanked Central Okanagan Search and Rescue and Alpine Helicopters for coordinating efforts.

The search and rescue team reminds people to prepare for winter hiking conditions with additional layers, water, food, lighting, and overnight essentials.

"Even short hikes can turn into overnight situations."

ORIGINAL 11:38 a.m.

A group of hikers spent the night in the cold in Okanagan Mountain Park south of Kelowna.

Central Okanagan Search and Rescue received a call around 6 p.m. on Saturday, asking for assistance for several hikers stranded in the Baker Lake area of Okanagan Mountain Park.

The park spans coverage zones for both COSAR and Penticton Search and Rescue. COSAR said that after consulting with the regional rescue teams, the group of hikers was advised to shelter in place.

The hikers were uninjured and equipped to spend the night on the mountain. They were successfully rescued early Sunday morning.