2 hikers missing at Zion National Park found uninjured

By Jackie Valley

Wednesday, April 20, 2011 | 3:20 p.m.

Two hikers whose disappearance over the weekend prompted a search at Zion National Park have been found safe, according to the National Park Service.

Evegnia Buzulukova, 25, of Roy, Utah, and Jonathon Wilson, 28, from Portland, Ore., were found at 10 p.m. Tuesday along with several other hikers, officials said.

The couple had a backcountry permit for a one-day trip Saturday through Russell Gulch and the left fork of North Creek, which is near Kolob Terrace Road about 15 miles north of Virgin, Utah.

Park rangers discovered their vehicle at the left fork of the North Creek trailhead Sunday. They were last seen Saturday morning at the head of the Russell Gulch.

Officials were concerned the pair may have been in danger due to streams along the route running "very high and cold" from melting snow.

High water, as it turns out, is what delayed the hikers' return.

Buzulukova and Wilson reached a point along the route where high and cold water conditions prevented them from crossing, officials said. They decided to wait for help from other hikers rather than attempt to continue by themselves.

Another group of hikers arrived Tuesday and helped the couple through the area, officials said. The entire group then continued the route through the canyon.

A rescue helicopter from the 66th Rescue Squadron based at Nellis Air Force Base spotted the group Tuesday evening, park rangers said. Two squadron members were lowered down from the helicopter to help the hikers safely finish the route.

None of the hikers or rescue crews were injured.

Park rangers praised the couple's decision to wait for help instead of attempting a risky endeavor.

"While canyon hiking (canyoneering) in Zion can be a challenging and rewarding activity, it is not one that should be entered into lightly," park officials said in a statement.

Officials advise hikers to be with at least one person who is experienced in canyoneering, use proper equipment and be aware of weather conditions before heading out. Park staff members also are available to speak with hikers before they begin.