Two hikers were found safe after being reported overdue in Bankhead National Forest on Sunday evening. According to the Lawrence County Sheriff's Office, the two had been hiking near waterfalls and were expected back by 2 p.m., but their family hadn't heard from them for several hours.
The hikers' vehicle was found at the Sipsey Picnic Area by deputies from the Winston and Lawrence County Sheriff鈥檚 Offices. The Lawrence County Sheriff鈥檚 Office Multi-Agency Search and Rescue Team was called in to assist with the search.
Search teams began their efforts early Monday morning, and by 11:54 a.m., the hikers were located unharmed. They had taken a wrong turn and become disoriented.
Sheriff Max Sanders highlighted the importance of sharing hiking plans with others.聽
鈥淎lways let your family or friends know exactly where you鈥檙e going and when you plan to be back. That information can make all the difference in helping us find you quickly if something goes wrong,鈥 said Sanders.
The search operation also benefited from the Sheriff鈥檚 Office鈥檚 new Starlink Internet System, which improved communication in the forest's remote areas.
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Source: Lawrence County Sheriff's Office
