The outdoors is a wonderful place. As kids, we were often encouraged to go out and play instead of spending the entire day glued to the TV. These days, the challenge has shifted to pulling kids away from video games, TikTok, or Instagram. But, as with all things in life, too much of anything can be a bad thing—even when it comes to adventures.
A 10-year-old boy learned this firsthand when he set off to explore on his ATV in Colorado's Rampart Range. Known as a destination for off-road vehicle enthusiasts, the Rampart Range boasts an extensive network of trails and breathtaking views of natural landscapes and wildlife. It’s easy to get carried away in such a place and, quite literally, go where the wind takes you. Unfortunately, that’s exactly what happened to our young adventurer, who found himself lost in the snow-covered trails.
Despite his age, the boy showed remarkable composure and handled the situation like a pro. According to CBS News, after realizing he was lost, he stayed calm, remained in one place, and called 911—thankfully, there was cell service. He then followed the operator’s instructions, which played a crucial role in ensuring his safety.
Douglas County Search and Rescue shared details of the operation in a Facebook post, highlighting how technology was pivotal in saving the boy. They first located him using a drone, which was later used to deliver a care package containing blankets, water, and food. Rescue teams on ATVs and on foot were eventually deployed to bring him back safely. Once the mission was complete, they celebrated with a group photo, commending the boy’s levelheaded actions.
There’s a lot we can learn from this young adventurer—both for ourselves and for the little explorers in our lives who might get carried away during their own outdoor escapades. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when heading into the great outdoors, whether on two wheels, four wheels, or on foot:
- Prepare for the adventure: Pack the essentials—food, water, clothing, and emergency supplies like a first-aid kit or allergy medication. These can be lifesavers if your trip lasts longer than planned. It’s also a good idea to pack tools, a spare tube, and an emergency tire repair kit if you embark on adventures on either a bicycle, motorcycle, ATV, or UTV.
- Stay connected: Keep your phone charged or carry a satellite communicator, such as a Garmin InReach. These devices are invaluable in emergencies when you need to call for help. Pack a power bank or an emergency power supply, too, in case you find your gadgets running out of juice in the event of an emergency.
- Be alert: Familiarize yourself with the terrain and set landmarks, like unique trees, crossroads, unusual rocks, or old structures. These can help you navigate back if you venture too far off-trail. And with today’s tech, doing so is easier than ever. Simply take a photo of that landmark and add a little note to let you know where it is. Who knows, it might even come in handy for an Instagram post after the adventure?
At the end of the day, it’s important to remember adventure inherently comes with a touch of risk—this element of unpredictability is part of what makes exploring the great outdoors exciting, and quite frankly, worth doing. But the thrill can still be enjoyed safely and responsibly.
So, gear up, stay prepared, and happy exploring!
Sources: Douglas County Search and Rescue, CBS News
