Two hikers were found and escorted off Mount Benson by Nanaimo Search and Rescue Sunday.
The men, 27 and 25, had parked their car at Westwood Lake earlier in the day and hiked up the mountain, but after reaching the summit they couldn't find the trail to come back down and called Nanaimo RCMP at about 6:15 p.m.
The hikers' cellphone was pinged and an approximate location was obtained. Search and rescue hiked to the location and found the men at 10:15 p.m. Both men were checked over then escorted off the mountain to their vehicles.
Police said the hikers were well prepared with warm clothing, food and the ability to start a small fire, but were not prepared or expecting to spend a night on the mountain in sub-zero weather.
“This situation was resolved successfully and fortunately the two are no worse for wear, "said Const. Gary O'Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesman in a press release.
Late fall days are short, weather can change quickly and trails disappear with new snow. Injuries can also happen. Dress accordingly, always carry a fully charged cell phone, pack food and the ability to start a fire for warmth, said O'Brien.