Should lost or injured hikers be charged for backcountry rescues?

Should lost or injured hikers be charged for backcountry rescues?

That is the poll question currently be asked on the Blue Ridge Outdoors website. This issue seems to be growing within the outdoor community as I've been seeing more debate about it in recent months.

Surprisingly, 63% of the respondents to this poll have said "Yes" so far.

Actually, I think the question should've included a qualifier. I think that the comment left by Joe McAlister pretty much sums-up my feelings on this issue:

Let me clarify. I think it should be evaluated on a case by case basis. If an experienced, well prepared hiker, climber, etc. has something happen to them that is out of their control, something that they couldn’t have prepared for like a rock slide, or other natural event, then no. Now, if some yokel goes galavanting out into the backcountry with no experience, knowledge and completely unprepared then yes.

Please click here if you would like to cast your vote.


Jeff
HikingintheSmokys.com Detailed information on trails in the Smoky Mountains; includes trail descriptions, key features, pictures, video, maps, elevation profiles, news, and more.