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Missing quadder rescued after 2 days in the elements near Grande Prairie

A file photo of an RCMP badge.
A file photo of an RCMP badge. Global News

EDMONTON – A 28-year-old man who was separated from his group while quadding near Grande Prairie Thursday night has been safely located after spending two nights alone in the wilderness.

Police say a search helicopter located Craig Drysdale around 3 p.m. Saturday on the banks of the Wapiti River. RCMP were alerted of the missing quadder around 2 a.m. Friday.

Late Thursday night, five people were quadding near the Canfor haul road, about 10-20 kilometres south of Grande Prairie, when they realized Drysdale was missing. After searching for him for four or five hours the group notified police.

RCMP say the experienced outdoorsman lit a small fire and spent Thursday night in a densely treed area. While walking Friday morning Drysdale came across the Wapiti River and spend the next day-and-a-half walking along the river bank.

During his travels Drysdale came across a trapper’s cabin where he spent Friday night. He was able to dry his clothes and found a can of chicken noodle soup to eat.

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Saturday morning Drysdale continued walking along the river bank until he was found by the search helicopter.

Officers say Drysdale was wearing a helmet and was dressed for the conditions. He was checked out by medical staff and determined to be in good health.

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